Makumba Nyenje, a prominent voice in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, has been awarded the Great Dyke Honorary Award for Exceptional Contribution to Mining, in recognition of his decades-long leadership and advocacy for sustainable and inclusive mining practices.
Speaking after receiving the award, Nyenje expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a milestone in his mining journey.
“I feel greatly honoured for this prestigious award for the exceptional contribution in the mining field,” he said. “I started as Secretary of the Mberengwa Miners Association, later became National Chairman of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation, and now serve as the provincial chairperson of the Federation. I’m also the director of ZIMSHEC, which speaks into sustainable mining issues. So, this is indeed a great honour.”
Currently serving as Midlands Province chairperson for the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), Nyenje has been instrumental in championing the formalization of small-scale mining, improving safety standards, and empowering artisanal miners with training and access to resources.
Through his role as Executive Director of the Zimbabwe Mining Safety, Health and Environmental Council (ZIMSHEC), Nyenje has also driven initiatives to ensure responsible mining practices that safeguard both workers and the environment.
The Honorary Award is part of the annual Great Dyke Awards, which celebrate individuals and organizations contributing to the growth and sustainability in the Great Dyke.