Hlalani Kuhle residents have expressed distaste over a continued series of mine blasts which pose a threat to their lives. They blame a mine that operates in the area. This came to light during a Ward Advocacy meeting that was conducted by Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) in conjunction with Gwanda Community Economic Justice Development Trust (GCEJDT) at the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council in Gwanda, yesterday.
Residents fingered Imani Mine blasts as the cause of the cracking of their homes. They added that the blasts take place at times even after sunset not only causing further cracks to their walls but also depriving them of sleep.
“The matter presented about the mine blasts needs to be fully investigated before the community can quickly put the entirety of the blame on Imani Mine,” said Zibusiso Sibanda, representative from Imani Mine. “We have heard some of the accusations that somewhat crucify us as the major perpetrators of the mine blasts that are prevalent in the area.”
Residents further alleged that the mine blasts have, in extreme cases caused breakage of their windows. Such effects of mine blasts are not only a danger to those who reside close to the mine but an expense as they are forced to dig deep into their pockets to repair broken windows.
“These mine blasts are a burden that we have had to live with at Hlalani Kuhle,” said Sikhululekile Ndlovu, a member of the Flying Eagle Miners club. “We now live in constant fear as we are not sure what could happen beyond the cracks that we see on the walls of our houses. Falling asleep at night is also difficult as the noise will be too loud to ignore.”
Speaking on behalf of Gwanda Municipality, Ward 8 Councillor, Ntuthuko Ndebele assured Hlalani Kuhle residents on how Council would try by all means possible to work with various stakeholders to resolve the problem of mine blasts.
“An unfair practice that Hlalani Kuhle residents have to live with on a daily basis has to be corrected through various modes of interventions which are soon to be implemented.”
Source: Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD)
