By A Correspondent – Mutare is under siege from illegal gold panners, whose uncontrolled activities are now threatening the city’s environment, public health, and security, according to a Mutare City Council source.
The gold panners, commonly referred to as makorokoza, have invaded several areas around the city, leaving trails of destruction and raising serious concern among local authorities.
“We are witnessing environmental destruction on a massive scale,” said a Mutare City Council source. “These illegal miners are digging indiscriminately, polluting rivers, and using toxic chemicals without any regard for the long-term consequences.”
The source explained that rivers such as Odzi, Sakubva, and Mutare have become hotspots for contamination due to the use of mercury and cyanide in the gold extraction process.
“Mercury doesn’t just disappear — it builds up in the environment and enters the food chain. These rivers supply water to thousands, so this is not just an environmental issue; it’s a public health emergency.”
The City Council is also concerned about rising crime in areas affected by illegal panning.
Residents in suburbs near the mining sites have reported theft, assaults, and violent confrontations.
“These people operate outside the law. Some are armed, and they don’t hesitate to intimidate residents or each other. We are seeing a breakdown in public order in certain parts of the city,” the Mutare City Council source said.
Health officials have reportedly recorded cases of skin infections, respiratory problems, and symptoms consistent with mercury poisoning among people living near the mining zones.
“There is no protective gear, no safety measures, and no waste management,” said the source.
“The chemicals used can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, especially in children. We’re putting lives at risk by allowing this to continue.”
The economic fallout is also worrying. Illegal gold panning deprives both local and national authorities of tax revenue, while damaging ecosystems that are essential to sectors such as tourism and agriculture.
Source: Zimeye
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