BOTHA Gold Mine has moved to clarify its position following what it describes as a wave of misleading reports circulating on social media and in sections of the press regarding a recent directive issued by the Provincial Mining Engineer for Mashonaland Central.
In a formal statement released on Friday, the mine expressed concern over narratives surrounding the directive, emphasising the need for accurate reporting in light of an ongoing legal dispute and the broader implications for public confidence and community stability.
Ongoing Legal Dispute at the Centre
The developments arise within the context of a long-running boundary dispute between Botha Gold Mine and Freda Rebecca Gold Mine, whose agents reportedly include Navid Incorporated (Pvt.) Ltd.
According to Botha Gold Mine, the matter is currently before the courts, including a High Court application under case number HCH1051/26, in which Freda Rebecca seeks a declaratory order regarding ownership of the disputed area loosely referred to as “Mining Lease 21.”
The mine maintains that it remains in lawful possession of the area, citing multiple High Court orders and has raised concern over what it describes as repeated attempts to bypass legal processes through “self-help measures” and unauthorised interference on the ground.
Clarification on the Mining Directive
Central to the current controversy is a directive issued on 8 April 2026 by the Provincial Mining Engineer. Botha Gold Mine has clarified that the directive is a safety-based suspension order, issued in terms of the Mining (Management and Safety) Regulations (S.I. 109 of 1990).
The company stressed that the directive should not be interpreted as determining ownership, mining rights or control over the disputed area.
“Any narratives suggesting that the directive transfers authority, validates competing claims or permits selective continuation of operations are misleading,” the statement noted.
Engagement with Authorities
Botha Gold Mine confirmed that it has formally engaged the Provincial Mining Director, raising concerns regarding the legality, procedural fairness and enforceability of the directive.
The company stated that its engagement with authorities has been conducted “respectfully and constructively,” while reaffirming its commitment to resolving the matter within the confines of the law.
Rejecting Allegations of Disorder
The mine strongly rejected characterisations of its operations as violent or unregulated, noting that any reported incidents of unrest have occurred within its operational area due to alleged unauthorised incursions.
It stated that any actions taken have been defensive in nature, aimed at protecting personnel, contractors and property within a structured and regulated environment.
Such portrayals, the company warned, risk undermining a formalised artisanal mining model that supports over 200 contractors and more than 5,000 direct and indirect livelihoods across Bindura and Mashonaland Central.
Socio-Economic Impact Highlighted
Botha Gold Mine highlighted the broader socio-economic role of its operations, noting that its structured mining framework has contributed to local development and national output.
The company further indicated that its operations have played a role in improving social stability, including reducing crime and substance abuse, particularly among youths who are now gainfully employed within a formal mining system.
Additionally, former informal miners have reportedly been integrated into a regulated artisanal mining structure in line with government efforts to formalise the sector.
Call for Calm and Responsible Reporting
As the legal process continues, Botha Gold Mine has called for calm, restraint and responsible conduct from all stakeholders.
The company also urged media organisations and the public to verify information against official sources and avoid amplifying incomplete or distorted narratives, warning of the broader consequences of misinformation on livelihoods, community stability and investor confidence.
“Attempts to bypass the courts will not succeed; this matter will be resolved in law, not in narrative,” the statement concluded.