Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. STAKEHOLDERS in Mutoko have launched a collaborative monitoring campaign against illegal mining activities in the district.
The initiative brings together representatives from the Environmental Management Agency (Ema), local government, traditional leaders and environmental monitors under the auspices of Silveira House, a non-governmental organisation.
“We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the sustainable management of our natural resources,” said Joseph Zinzombe Ema senior representative responsible for the district at a feedback meeting.
Stakeholders are optimistic that the collaborative model will help to bring about social and environmental justice within local communities.
“For meaningful progress, there is a need to find amicable solutions that promote social justice, sustainable governance of mining and environmental operations,” environmental monitor Tichatonga Nyangu said.
The joint monitoring campaign represents a significant step towards sustainable development in mining and environmental conservation in Mutoko district.
Silveira House project manager Zandile Mvududu said bringing stakeholders together through evidence-based approaches was key to achieving social and environmental justice.
“We are humbled to have played a role in facilitating this important dialogue among the community,” she said.
It emerged at the meeting that 13 tickets worth US$17 000 were issued by Ema to mining operators found on the wrong side of the law.
Stakeholders emphasised the importance of evidence-based participatory approaches in addressing the complex challenges faced by the mining sector and local communities.
“Silveira House has long recognised the importance of bringing stakeholders together through fact-based, collaborative approaches,” said Leonard Gurure, a participant, on the sidelines of the meeting.
“Its commitment to fostering sustainable development through building alliances between government, mining companies, civil society and communities was evident in the way it helped to shape the discussions and deliberations throughout.”
For More News And Analysis About Zimbabwe Follow Africa-Press
