To combat rampant mineral leakages, the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) has acquired drones for real-time surveillance of mining sites, transit cargo, and stockpiles.
The move boosts mineral accountability and targets illicit trade through remote airstrips and private jets.
Mining contributes about 11% of Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product and 60% of export earnings.
The country boasts of having a diverse mineral landscape with over 40 different minerals.
Meanwhile, the country loses $1.5 billion of gold a year to smugglers, depriving it of vital export revenue, according to the International Crisis Group.
Most of its gold is produced by small-scale miners, who at times get paid late by the state’s sole authorized buyer, Fidelity Gold Refinery, forcing some to use other channels.
