By Revesai Mavetera
Residents of Hwange, Zimbabwe, particularly women from the Raylton suburb, have taken to the streets to protest against the harmful effects of mining activities in their area. They are concerned about heavy dust pollution caused by mining company vehicles passing through residential areas, which they fear could lead to health problems. The women argue that the mining companies are violating the country’s constitution, which guarantees the right to a safe environment. Despite the availability of a designated road for trucks, some companies continue to use a narrow dirt road through residential areas.
Last year, six women were arrested for demanding environmental justice after blocking trucks from a coking coal company. These trucks were transporting coal through the residential area. The residents have now teamed up with the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) and marched in another area affected by the crisis to raise awareness and pressure the government and industry to take action.
The dust pollution has had a significant impact on the lives of women in Hwange. They face increased workloads due to the pollution and are exposed to health risks. Some mining companies provide medical aid schemes for their employees, but families are not covered, despite facing similar health risks from the dust pollution. Women in Hwange spend a lot of time dealing with the problems caused by the pollution, such as constantly washing clothes covered in coal dust.
The CNRG report highlights the frustration of residents who have been unable to engage with authorities to address the issue effectively. This has prompted the organization to organize the march against dust pollution as a way to raise awareness and push for action from the government and mining industry.
Tensions have been rising between residents and mining companies in the coal-mining sector. In the Dinde area of Hwange, villagers are opposing a coal-mining project that is expected to displace around 600 families and damage the environment. They are concerned about the health problems, land damage, and water pollution that the project could cause, as well as its contribution to global climate change.
