By Staff Writer 

Miners For Economic Development (Miners For ED) fully supports the President's recent statements recognizing the vital importance of artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) to Zimbabwe's economic future. 

"We particularly applaud His Excellency, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa's decisive plan to anchor the national currency in physical gold reserves, viewing this as a crucial move towards achieving economic stability and fostering national pride," Kucherera said.

"The President's assertion that a strong nation and respected currency require "solid gold" backing directly addresses Zimbabwe's historical challenges. The move to physically secure substantial gold reserves, significantly sourced from our dedicated ASM sector, is essential for restoring economic sovereignty and establishing a stable, credible currency."

He added that a "key and welcome aspect of the President's address is the call to stop criminalizing artisanal miners and instead formally recognize them as indispensable economic partners. These miners, who often work under difficult circumstances, are fundamental stewards of our mineral wealth and powerful drivers of local job creation and development," he said.

"Formalizing and supporting the ASM sector will enable Zimbabwe to boost transparent and sustainable gold output, increase government revenue for national projects, enhance safety and working conditions for miners and empower communities and reduce poverty.

"This strategy marks the beginning of a new era where Zimbabwe's currency, grounded firmly on tangible gold reserves, can achieve lasting stability. This will encourage investment, promote savings, and safeguard citizens' purchasing power."

The affiliate added that it "urges all stakeholders , government, miners, financial institutions, and the public to unite behind this initiative. We can collectively build a resilient economy that values the contribution of every Zimbabwean, especially our artisanal and small-scale miners. Harnessing the full potential of our natural resources and the people who extract them is key to Zimbabwe's prosperity. Supporting artisanal miners is both an economic necessity and an act of patriotism. We commend the President's visionary leadership and pledge our full commitment to realizing this promising path forward."