A silent but deadly threat looms large in the country’s mining towns where concerns about the adverse effects of mercury on both human health and the environment have escalated and has sparked a heated debate between miners striving for survival and environmental activists advocating for change.
Mercury, a potent neurotoxin, is commonly used in small-scale gold mining operations to extract gold from ore, however, the improper handling and disposal of mercury-laden waste have led to widespread contamination of soil, water, and air in mining communities across the country.
Speaking from his experience as a miner, Tafadzwa Maviri an artisanal miner in Penhalonga, Manicaland said it’s a matter of survival. “We are aware of the dangers of mercury, but we have no other option. It’s a matter of survival for us, we need to feed our families,” said Maviri.
Echoing the same sentiments was 34-year-old Liberty Chinovona a gold panner from Chegutu who said circumstances at home had led him to risk his health. “I am very much aware of the effects of mercury on my health as I have seen colleagues become victims but there is no option other than risking. Circumstances have forced many to risk their lives by coming into direct contact with mercury. We have had awareness campaigns on mercury use but without an alternative there nothing that we can do,” Chinovona said
Chinovona’s sentiment echoes throughout the mining community, where the use of mercury is often seen as a necessary evil in the pursuit of meager earnings. However, the long-term consequences of mercury exposure are dire, with increased risks of neurological disorders, birth defects, and other serious health ailments.
Environmental activists have been vocal in condemning the indiscriminate use of mercury in mining operations. Chegutu based environmental advocate Sithabile Ndlovu highlighted the urgency of the situation saying efforts to address the issue have been met with challenges.
“The environmental and health impacts of mercury contamination are undeniable. We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of both people and ecosystems. Addressing the issue has had its challenges as a result inadequate regulation and enforcement mechanisms,” said Ndlovu.
While some mining companies have implemented mercury-free technologies, these initiatives remain limited in scope and reach.
