The Secretary of State for Manica Province, Lourenço Lindonde, announced on Friday the immediate suspension of gold mining activities in Manica, warning that the measure could be extended to the Sussundenga district if practices that disregard sustainable mineral resource exploitation standards persist.
In a statement to the press, Lindonde explained that the decision was driven by severe environmental impacts, including river pollution, forest destruction, and risks to the health and safety of communities, particularly consumers of water from the Chicamba reservoir.
“The Government of Manica Province reiterates that the exploitation of natural resources must strictly comply with current environmental and mining legislation, respecting the principles of sustainability and legal responsibility,” said the official.
He further stressed that no economic activity can override the right of populations to a healthy and balanced environment.
Lindonde added that inspection and environmental protection teams have already been mobilized, ensuring that the provincial government will continue working to promote resource exploitation that generates economic and social benefits without compromising the region’s natural heritage.
Source: O País
