The government has suspended the activities of five mining companies in the district of Manica, in the province of the same name, due to environmental pollution, particularly of river water courses with chemicals that are causing the death of cattle.

Most of the affected rivers flow into the Chicamba Reservoir, one of the main sources of drinking water for almost half of the province's population.

“We have become aware that the levels of turbidity in the water are increasing every day, and we understand that if this practice continues we may have problems. It is important to understand that the problem is not the mining activity, but the way it is carried out”, said Jorge Daúdo, Secretary of State for Mines, quoted by “O País”. 

In addition to the suspension of activities, the companies will face administrative and legal proceedings, including the imposition of significant fines and compensation for the damage caused to communities and the environment. Daúdo also said that there is currently no room for discussion, other than suspending the activities of companies that are harming the environment. “As a government, as a mineral resource, we cannot let this go lightly, and we will take measures. First of all, we have just temporarily suspended five mining companies here in Manica, while they prepare to be able to resume their activities,” he explained.