Mines and Minerals Bill to transform Zimbabwe’s gold sector
Zimbabwe’s proposed mining legislation could reshape artisanal gold production by bringing informal operators into the regulated economy and protecting vulnerable groups. A planetGOLD report released on Monday at a Harare conference said the Mines and Minerals Bill addresses gaps in current law and creates pathways for miners to gradually meet legal requirements.
Small-scale gold producers account for most of Zimbabwe’s output but often operate outside formal systems. The legislation recognizes artisanal miners as legitimate operators, provides access to support services, and requires adherence to environmental standards.
PlanetGOLD Zimbabwe will assist in implementing the law after its passage by providing training in mercury-free extraction methods and helping miners achieve compliance. The organization operates across 25 countries to reduce the use of toxic metals in gold mining.
Policymakers should adopt transitional measures that help informal miners comply with regulations without losing their livelihoods, the report stated. The changes would let artisanal operations contribute more fully to national development and tax revenue.
