Zimbabwe is reinforcing that mining investment must be responsible. The Ministry of Mines is set to pilot the National Responsible Mining Audit Framework (NRMAF), aimed at closing regulatory gaps and institutionalizing ethical, sustainable practices.
The initiative responds to the environmental and social toll of mining—deforestation, river pollution, and community harm—while weak ESG compliance persists. NRMAF will unify statutory and ESG audits, track compliance through a national data portal, and trigger regulatory amendments once validated.
Government leaders, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa and VP Constantino Chiwenga, have emphasized that investment is welcome, but indiscriminate or harmful extraction will face sanctions or removal from the sector.
Speaking recently Mines Minister Winston Chitando warned that government will be tougher on illegal mining practices.
The pilot marks a clear message: mining in Zimbabwe must benefit the economy, protect communities, and safeguard the environment. Its success will shape the sector’s future and demonstrate whether the country can balance growth with responsible stewardship.
