FEMALE miners are seeking intervention from the authorities as they are reportedly being targeted by the notorious machete gangs, whose actions are harming their ability to mine.
The machete gangs or MaShurugwi, as they are popularly known, are violent gangs of artisanal miners who are believed to be working for top politicians and notable persons who have mines in high-producing gold areas nationally.
The purpose of these gangs is to protect the interests of these politicians and notable persons.
Back in 2019 and 2021, the gang made made headlines for the wrong reasons as they allegedly tortured, kidnapped, maimed, raped and even killed other artisanal miners perceived as “threats” to the politicians and notable persons’ mining interests.
“There are many challenges women are facing in mining, including financial support, training and discrimination due to cultural beliefs and stereotypes and gender-based violence from machete gangs,” Women Empowerment in Mining Zimbabwe board secretary Tino Kadhau told NewsDay Business in an interview.
She disclosed that machete gangs were terrorising female miners to the point of them abandoning their business.
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She added that this harassment had made it challenging for them to work in a peaceful and orderly environment.
When reached for comment on the matter, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the machete gangs had resurfaced, but had not heard about any specific targeted attacks against women.
“I’m not aware of that report, but as far as we are concerned, the police have got an ongoing operation. We have arrested over a 1 000 people throughout the country in terms of maintaining the order of mining sites,” he said.
“We have brought the attention of the police to ask those people who are concerned to come forward with such concerns. We can assure you we will investigate this matter.”
A source privy to on-goings in Shurugwi confirmed that the machete gangs had resurfaced and were terrorising the mining community.
Some of the main challenges being faced by women include a lack of capital, sexual abuse, intimidation and disputes over mining claims.
“Funding, a lack of machinery, lack of knowledge and understanding of mining operations and management skills are some challenges that are affecting women, as financial institutions are not really supportive,” Kadhau said.
Small-scale miners contribute 60% of the total gold production, making them a large national income generator, with women being included in this group.
According to the Zimbabwe Miners Federation, there are about 50 000 registered small-scale miners in the country, who employ at least 10 workers each on average.
According to the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, the mining sector is projected to grow by an average of 7% in 2025, raking in US$6 billion in exports, driven by a strong recovery in gold, platinum group metals, and diamond prices.