Government To Reorganise Mining Sector With New Regulations

The announcement was made by President Daniel Chapo during a press conference marking the end of his working visit to Inhambane Province.

According to Chapo, the implementation of the new law, the creation of a new state-owned mining company, the approval of the regulations and the reopening of a more organised mining registry are expected to improve control over mining activities across the country.

“We are absolutely confident that, with the new law coming into force, the new state-owned mining company, the approval of the new mining regulations and the reopening of a highly organised registry, we will be able, in the coming days, to reorganise the mining sector,” he said.

The President said the restructuring will cover critical mining areas, including the “Seis Carros” mine in Vanduzi District, Manica Province, as well as mining zones in Tete and other parts of the country.

His remarks come amid growing concern over accidents in areas of artisanal and illegal mining.

At the “Seis Carros” mine, several miners have recently died following landslides in an area where the search for gold has led to the progressive expansion of excavation sites.

According to local authorities, some pits have reached around 20 metres in depth and 25 metres in diameter, increasing the risk of collapse and burial.

The high concentration of people in mining areas, particularly during the rainy season, has also been identified as a factor contributing to soil instability.

The government has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of uncontrolled mining, including land degradation, contamination of water sources and the absence of rehabilitation plans for exploited areas.

In July, the Office of the Attorney-General warned about the involvement of minors in illegal mining activities in Manica after identifying around 900 excavation sites.

In 2025, several mining companies had their licences suspended over environmental irregularities and failure to comply with operational standards.

Meanwhile, 30 of the 41 companies suspended in Manica have already resumed operations after meeting the requirements imposed by the authorities, while the remaining firms are still under assessment.

With the new regulations, the government aims to tighten control over the sector, improve inspection mechanisms and reduce accidents associated with illegal and poorly regulated mineral extraction.