Resettlement

At Murowa, it became necessary to relocate 141 families and to keep the footprint of the mine to a minimum as the area was fully populated. Priority was given to land preparation and the resettled families were able to plant a crop for the 2002/03 season and to reap a favourable harvest.

The community was also sensitive to issues concerning graves. Over 200 graves were allocated to new sites with each reburial taking place under the direct supervision of the family and witnessed by the traditional leadership, the councillor and the district administration.

One sacred site, known as Darashuro Hill, was within the fenced area. The site was important and after consultation the traditional leaders asked that it be moved. The elders of the community carried out the ceremonial processes for the relocation and MPDL met the cost of the proceedings and the ceremonial accessories.