SYDNEY MUBAIWA
ZAKA-The High Court has ordered Bailzone Mining to stop chrome exploration in Chiromo village under Chief Nhema in Zaka following a legal challenge by locals who had argued that the company was violating their sacred sites.
The court ruled in favour of Pride Garauzive, Million Rushinga and Gideon John who argued that the mining company was disrupting community life and was encroaching on important sites including homesteads, graveyards, grazing land, fields, and other sacred places without buy in from the community.
The mining company, which held 60 mining claims, failed to prove that it had authority from the Zaka Rural District Council or a valid Environmental Impact Assessment. The court dismissed the company’s earlier attempt to block villagers from interfering with mining activities.
In an interview with The Midweek Watch, villagers said the development was of paramount importance which empowers the locals.
“We appreciate the court’s ruling. The development emphasises the importance of community engagement by mining companies as well as the right to land and cultural respect.
“This remarkable development is highly appreciated as it empowers the local villagers to benefit from the local resources,” said Moses Moyo from Chiromo village.
