President Mnangagwa urged to halt mining at Zimbabwe's Christmas Pass

The Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) submitted a petition to President Emmerson Mnangagwa demanding an immediate stop to mining activities at Christmas Pass, a celebrated mountain gateway near Mutare. The petition alleges that mining by Culverhouse Investments (Pvt) Ltd is causing irreversible environmental damage, breaching Section 73 of Zimbabwe’s Constitution, Section 194 on public administration, and Section 97 of the Environmental Management Act, which requires a proper Environmental Impact Assessment.

CNRG calls for the suspension of all mining at the site pending an independent investigation, a review of mining licences and permits, and stronger enforcement of environmental laws by the Environmental Management Agency. The appeal highlights concerns for public safety, tourism value, and the preservation of the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.