The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has launched nationwide blitz inspections targeting alluvial chrome mining operations and processing plants
The inspections commenced on October 1, 2026, with the first phase targeting mining operations in Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces before being extended to other parts of the country.
In a statement issued recently, Permanent Secretary for Mines and Mining Development Dr Utete Wushe said the inspections were aimed at ensuring that all alluvial chrome mining operations complied with the provisions of the Mines and Minerals Act [Chapter 21:05].
“The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has begun nationwide blitz inspections of alluvial chrome mining operations and processing plants, effective 25 September 2026, to enforce compliance with mining laws,” Dr Wushe said.
He said the first phase of the exercise would focus on three provinces, adding that the inspections would subsequently be rolled out across the country.
“The first phase covers Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West and Midlands Provinces, before extending to other provinces,” he said.
The Ministry said chromite is a designated mineral under Section 222 of the Mines and Minerals Act, meaning that its extraction is subject to specific legal requirements.
“Under Section 222 of the Mines and Minerals Act [Chapter 21:05], chromite is a designated mineral, and no person may work its alluvial or eluvial deposit without a Mining Affairs Board order under Section 225,” Dr Wushe said.
The Government warned that mining operations found operating outside the legal framework would face enforcement measures, including suspension and penalties.
“Non-compliant operations face suspension and penalties,” he said.
The inspections will also extend to processing plants to determine whether they are operating in accordance with the country’s mining and regulatory requirements.
The blitz comes as Government looks to strengthen oversight of the mining sector and ensure that mineral resources are extracted and processed within the law while safeguarding the environment and national economic interests.
