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Oliver Kazunga, Senior Business Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has increased the number of its affiliate associations to a record 102 driven by the desire for improved representation and the country’s drive to formalise small-scale mining operations across the country.

ZMF is the mother body of the small-scale mining sector led by businesswoman, Ms Henrietta Rushwaya who is the president.

According to a report that was prepared by ZMF for submission to Government, the federation said its membership has grown “tremendously” to a record 102 associations.

“Membership in ZMF has grown up so tremendously from 13 affiliate associations to a record 102. This is a 684 percent rise in terms of membership,” reads the report.

The organisation said the 102 were the confirmed list of associations that participated at this year’s provincial council and national executive elections held from the 28th May to 12 June.

According to a report, Matabeleland South province has the highest number of associations affiliated to the federation.

The province has close to 30 associations affiliated to ZMF followed by Midlands with more than 20 while Mashonaland West is on third spot with 10.

ZMF affiliate associations are also drawn from Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Masvingo and Matabeleland North provinces.

As part of efforts to improve its mandate, during the course of the year, the ZMF amended its constitution.

“The process was a resounding success with 58 associations ratifying the ZMF new constitution,” it said.

“Highlights of the ZMF new constitution are the devolution process and the tenure of office for all boards that was increased from three to five years.”

In line with the devolution agenda, ZMF provincial councils now have the mandate to run the affairs of all affiliates in their provinces.

ZMF said this has worked well with all provinces generating internal correspondence for any administrative issues.
During the course of the year, ZMF said it worked well and closely with Government agencies. -@KazungaOliver