Harare halts gravel mining at Warren Hills

Published: 1 hour ago

The Harare City Council has ordered an immediate halt to all gravel mining operations at Warren Hills, following mounting public outrage over extensive environmental damage at the once-scenic landmark.

The resolution was adopted during the council's full meeting last week, where Mayor Jacob Mafume condemned the "chaos" and "ugliness" caused by unregulated quarrying that has left the hill "literally torn apart."

Situated near the Museum of African Liberation, the site had in recent months turned into a free-for-all mining zone, with truckloads of gravel being removed daily. Allegations have since surfaced that some city officials were personally benefiting from the illegal activities, allegedly conducted under the guise of land reclamation.

The uncontrolled extraction has drastically reshaped the terrain, creating steep and eroding slopes that now threaten nearby Warren Park homes. Residents have complained of dust pollution, noise from heavy machinery, and constant traffic disruptions.

Mayor Mafume confirmed that the council had adopted the Environmental Management Committee's recommendation to cease all mining activity at the site.

"There is chaos at Warren Hills. People are complaining; there is dust pollution and uncontrolled mining," he said. "We resolved to stop all operations until a clear, regulated system is established."

He emphasized the need for a professional and environmentally sound approach, suggesting that the city should engage a qualified contractor to manage any future extraction responsibly.

"My thinking is that we should have a contractor who can manage mining properly so that the hill is not mutilated as if we are doing gold panning," said Cllr Mafume.

While the ban remains in force, Mafume indicated that controlled gravel extraction may still be allowed for the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and the City of Harare itself — provided it is done under strict supervision and with environmental safeguards.

The issue was first raised in last month's council meeting, when Mafume warned that the illegal digging was tarnishing the image of the Museum of African Liberation — a key national heritage project under development nearby.

"When you look at the museum's progress and compare it with what is happening at Warren Hills, you see a mountain being abused in a dangerous, reckless manner," he said.

Residents have welcomed the council's intervention but expressed frustration that authorities acted only after years of complaints.

Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba said his organisation had repeatedly warned about the destructive mining and alleged bribery involving truck operators.

"Residents have long voiced concerns about sand mining. There have been allegations of bribes being paid to city officials by trucking companies operating in plain sight," Shumba said.

He criticised the miners for failing to contribute to community development despite the environmental damage and disruption caused.

"What is most disturbing is that they have done nothing for the Warren Park community — no compensation, no social responsibility efforts — even as they destroy the environment," he added.
- Sunday Mail

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