By Fanuel Chinowaita
ARDA TRANSAU, October 29, 2025 — Zimbabwe’s mining sector is set for a major transformation following the introduction of the computerized Mining Cadastre System, a move expected to eliminate double claim allocations and improve transparency in the industry.
Green Governance Zimbabwe (GGZ) said during a community meeting held last week at the ZIDAWU offices in Arda Transau, hosted by the Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Workers Union. The meeting brought together legal and artisanal miners, mine workers, and community members eager to understand how the digital system will operate.
GGZ was represented by Tracy Mafa, who explained that the cadastre system is a crucial step toward ensuring accountability and good governance in mining operations. She highlighted that the computerized platform will provide a clear, auditable record of all mining claims and transactions, helping to curb corruption and promote fair allocation of mining rights.
“The Mining Cadastre System is designed to enhance transparency and empower local communities by giving them access to information about mining activities in their areas,” said Mafa. “It will also reduce disputes over claim ownership and bring order to a sector that has long suffered from irregularities.”
ZIDAWU Chairperson Cosmas Sunguro welcomed the initiative, saying it would bring long-awaited relief to miners who have been affected by fraudulent activities and overlapping claim allocations.
“The cadastre system is a welcome move that is meant to solve the issue of double allocation. We have cases of individuals who were bringing post-dated papers meant to disadvantage the original owner of a claim,” said Sunguro.
The meeting also addressed other key issues affecting the mining sector, including environmental degradation and the exclusion of communities in decision-making processes. Participants expressed concern over mining operations taking place without proper Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), leading to land degradation and water pollution.
It was agreed that EMA must strengthen its monitoring role, and that traditional leaders and local councils should be involved in documenting and resolving mining impacts. Participants further called for a halt to riverbank mining along the Odzi River, which serves as a vital water source for the Arda community.
In conclusion, the gathering emphasized the need for transparency, environmental protection, and community participation in mining governance. Both ZIDAWU and GGZ were commended for initiating a dialogue that seeks to build a more accountable and sustainable mining industry in Zimbabwe.