Residents in Shurugwi are expressing growing concern over illegal mining activities in the Exodus Residential Stands area, a site designated for housing development. The community fears these operations are detrimental to the town’s growth and infrastructure.
A local resident, who spoke with Great Dyke News, highlighted that the area, formerly owned by an unnamed miner, has seen unauthorized shafts being opened by the miner’s associates. The resident urged the council to intervene and halt these activities.
Illegal mining, a persistent issue in Shurugwi—a town in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province known for its rich gold deposits—has intensified in recent years. Driven by economic hardships and the promise of quick profits, illegal miners, colloquially known as “makorokoza,” operate without the necessary licenses and disregard safety and environmental regulations. This has led to severe consequences, including environmental damage, hazardous working conditions, and violent conflicts among mining groups. Additionally, the lack of regulation has resulted in fatal accidents, further underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.
