The global lithium rush has reached Zimbabwe, with a surge in artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) seeking a piece of the lucrative battery metal market. This development has prompted the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) to collaborate with local and international NGOs to equip these miners with the knowledge and skills necessary for legal and responsible mining practices.
ZELA legal officer Nkazimulo Dube , highlighted the challenges faced by ASMs due to a legal framework that doesn’t distinguish between them and large-scale miners. This discrepancy creates a burden for ASMs, particularly regarding the expensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure required for mining operations.
To address this issue, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) introduced the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) as a more accessible alternative for ASMs. However, the lack of legal recognition for EMPs creates uncertainty for miners. Dube emphasized the need to incorporate EMPs into the national legislation, which can only occur when the law recognizes the specific needs of small-scale miners.
The current Mines and Minerals Act lumps ASMs together with large-scale miners, resulting in identical licensing processes and fees. ZELA is urging parliament to address these discrepancies during the anticipated amendment of the Act. The association emphasizes the need to properly address the challenges faced by ASMs, including ensuring their awareness of regulations concerning mining licenses, registrations, and EIAs.
Many ASMs in Zimbabwe have been operating under EMPs without conducting EIAs, putting their mining claims at risk. ZELA encourages these miners to comply with EIA regulations to safeguard their investments and avoid losing their claims during potential audits. Responsible mining practices are crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the ASM sector and its contribution to the national economy.