Gemfields, the world’s leading producer of responsibly sourced colored gemstones, has resumed mining operations at its Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique following a period of violent unrest. The company had temporarily suspended operations on December 24th after a “staged attempted invasion” by groups associated with illegal ruby mining and trading.
The incident, which saw a mob of over 200 individuals attack the mine’s village, setting fire to buildings and looting essential equipment, unfolded against the backdrop of escalating political tensions following Mozambique’s contentious presidential election in October.
The election, which saw the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, declared the winner, has been marred by allegations of widespread fraud. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who claims victory, has called for a nationwide shutdown, leading to widespread protests and civil unrest across the country.
The attempted invasion of the Montepuez mine coincided with a series of violent incidents across the region. In the nearby village of Namanhumbir, the police station, the mine’s Operational Grievance Mechanism, the community center, and the community radio center were all set ablaze. In other areas, essential services such as water supply were disrupted, and vital infrastructure, including police stations and administrative offices, were targeted.
The Mozambican government responded by deploying police and military forces to quell the unrest. While the situation has since stabilized, the incident highlights the growing security challenges facing the country and the significant impact on businesses operating in the region.
Gemfields, which operates the Montepuez mine in partnership with local company Mwiriti Limitada, had previously downplayed the impact of the political unrest on its operations. However, the recent events underscore the escalating security risks and the potential for further disruptions to mining activities.
The resumption of operations at Montepuez comes as a relief to the company, but the underlying issues remain. The political instability and the ongoing struggle to combat illegal mining activities pose significant challenges to the long-term sustainability of the mining sector in Mozambique.
A Shadow of Uncertainty
The recent events cast a long shadow over the future of mining in Mozambique. The country, renowned for its rich mineral resources, faces a critical juncture. The government must address the root causes of the unrest, including concerns about electoral integrity and the growing influence of illegal mining groups.
For Gemfields, navigating this complex environment requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes enhancing security measures at the mine site, strengthening community relations, and actively engaging with local stakeholders to address their concerns and grievances.
The company’s commitment to responsible mining practices and its efforts to contribute to the socio-economic development of the surrounding communities will be crucial in ensuring the long-term success of its operations in Mozambique.
By: Loyce Zemeyi
