By Caroline Washaya Moyo
The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has intensified enforcement against fugitive dust emissions from mining and other development projects, restricting ore transportation at two major mining operations in a move aimed at protecting public health, infrastructure and environmental quality.
The affected projects are Sabi Star Mine in Buhera District, Manicaland Province, and Gwanda Lithium Mine in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South Province. Both mines have been served with Environmental Protection Orders (EPOs) requiring the suspension of truck movements along identified routes within designated production areas.
In a statement EMA Environmental Education and Publicity Manager Akela Sidange said the restrictions would remain in force until the two mining projects submitted comprehensive dust management plans for approval and implemented the prescribed corrective measures to the Agency’s satisfaction.
The enforcement action follows growing concern over dust pollution generated by heavy trucks moving along internal haul roads and between production areas, particularly at mining sites.
According to EMA, some developers have continued to disregard repeated warnings, tickets and Environmental Protection Orders requiring them to introduce effective dust suppression measures.
The Agency said it had consequently strengthened its enforcement measures by restricting heavy truck movements within affected project sites until the developers comply with environmental requirements.
EMA invoked its powers under Section 37(4) of the Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27], stating that it would take immediate action where necessary to protect the environment and ensure compliance with the law.
The Agency warned that offenders would face appropriate legal action, including prosecution where applicable under the relevant provisions of the law.
Public health and community protection
Fugitive dust emissions can affect air quality, expose surrounding communities to airborne particles and contribute to environmental degradation. Dust generated by heavy vehicles can also reduce visibility and settle on nearby infrastructure, homes and vegetation.
EMA’s intervention highlights the need for mining companies to incorporate effective environmental management systems into their daily operations, particularly where frequent truck movements generate significant dust.
Measures such as road watering, appropriate dust suppression technologies, speed controls and haul-road maintenance can help reduce emissions when properly implemented.
However, EMA’s latest action signals that developers are expected to move beyond commitments and warnings to demonstrate compliance with environmental mitigation requirements.
The restrictions also underline the importance of balancing mining-led economic development with the protection of communities and the natural environment.
Communities urged to report violations
EMA has appealed to communities living in and around Sabi Star Mine and Gwanda Lithium Mine to remain vigilant and promptly report any truck movements that violate the restrictions imposed under the EPOs.
Sidange emphasised that the enforcement exercise was ongoing and warned that further action would be taken against other projects that fail to comply with environmental laws and lawful directives.
The latest measures reinforce the principle that mining and other development activities must be undertaken responsibly, with developers held accountable for the environmental and social impacts of their operations.
As Zimbabwe continues to pursue economic growth through investment and mineral resource development, effective environmental oversight remains essential to ensuring that the benefits of development do not come at the expense of public health, infrastructure and environmental integrity.
EMA reiterated that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and that no development should be undertaken at the expense of the health and well-being of surrounding communities.
