Mozambique Loses Millions to Illegal Mining

Mozambique has lost over US$3.1 million this year due to illegal mining in Zambezia, while safety and environmental concerns have also forced the suspension of mining in Manica.

Mozambique has lost over 200 million meticais (approximately US$3.1 million) this year due to illegal mining activities in the central province of Zambezia, officials have revealed. João Sembane, director of the Provincial Infrastructure Service, said illegal prospectors are repeatedly invading licensed mining areas, vandalising equipment, and selling minerals on the black market, undermining state revenue and disrupting the formal mining sector.

Zambezia is home to 16 licensed mining companies, which contribute to local development through tax payments, job creation, and revenue-sharing with surrounding communities. However, Sembane warned that illegal operations hinder their work, weaken the business environment, and prevent sustainable economic benefits. He called on residents to abandon unlawful mining and cooperate with the government and licensed operators to promote safe and regulated mineral exploitation.

The threat of illegal mining is not confined to Zambezia. In the neighbouring province of Manica, police recently detained 17 individuals suspected of engaging in unauthorised mining, following reports of at least 20 deaths caused by mine collapses this year. Mining operations in Manica have been temporarily suspended amid concerns over severe river pollution, including contamination of critical water sources such as the Revue River and Chicamba reservoir.

Authorities have emphasised that illegal mining not only deprives the state of vital revenue but also endangers lives, damages the environment, and undermines sustainable development. The government continues to stress the importance of formalising the sector, enforcing safety regulations, and protecting communities from the dangers associated with unregulated mining activities.