Miners told to prepare for El Niño

GEITA: THE government has directed small-scale miners in Geita Region to backfill all non-productive mining pits to prevent the impacts of El Niño rains.

Deputy Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office, Union and Environment, Mr Reuben Kwagilwa, issued the directive recently when he visited Msasa Mine in Bukombe District, Geita Region.

He said backfilling abandoned pits would help to prevent accidents and environmental damage once the rains begin.

“The most important thing is to continue backfilling all the pits that you have established and are no longer productive. They should not be left open because they are dangerous,” Mr Kwagilwa said.

He also called on mine management, in collaboration with the government, to strengthen drainage systems at small-scale mining sites.

“It is very important to ensure that proper drainage systems are in place to allow the smooth flow of water. You understand the conditions at the mine; there are people working down there. When it rains heavily up here, those pits could collapse. Therefore, it is important to cover the upper areas and ensure that drainage channels are properly constructed to safeguard everyone,” he said.

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Mr Kwagilwa said miners should also place greater emphasis on environmental cleanliness, including clearing drainage channels, toilets and miners’ camps.

“We must ensure that all waste is properly removed and does not obstruct the flow of water when the rains come,” he said.

Msasa Mine Manager, Mr Kessy Maira said preparations for the expected El Niño rains had already begun, including the construction of drainage channels to collect and direct water away from the mine.

He said the mine had engaged experts and technicians to ensure that drainage construction and environmental cleaning were carried out effectively in line with government directives.