The Environment Management Agency (EMA) says unlawful mining operations across the country have destroyed around 100 000 hectares of land. The increase in illegal mining activities has resulted in vast pollution, significant loss of productive land thereby affecting agriculture, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
EMA Communications Officer Joyce Chapungu told the Environment that, “Approximately 100163
Hectares of land has been degraded and a stretch of about 1555km riverine ecosystem.” The country’s economy is heavily reliant on agricultural and mining activities, which are major market boosters and common business for regional and international trade.
These two sectors have seen a lot of investment potential and growth over the years, and as a result, illegal activities have increased in the mining The government, on the other hand, has issued several calls to action through its law enforcement agencies to prevent the proliferation of such illicit activities, which endanger both the environment and the economy.
“The Agency Enforces rehabilitation for registered miners through inspections, monitoring and audit,” Chapungu added.
