By Agencies
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a veiled stern warning to Chinese investors, emphasising that Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth must directly benefit local communities.
Speaking during the unveiling of the rehabilitated Shurungwi-Mhandamabwe Road address, the President declared that any investors unwilling to comply with these expectations should abandon plans to exploit the country’s resources.
The increasing presence of Chinese mining companies in Zimbabwe has sparked widespread concerns about environmental degradation, particularly in rural and ecologically sensitive areas. While Chinese firms have invested heavily in the country’s mining sector, critics argue that the environmental cost is too high, with local communities often bearing the brunt of the damage.
“The wealth under the belly of the earth should help develop the hosting community,” Mnangagwa said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable resource distribution. “All foreign investors should take heed. If they don’t want to comply, then they better leave our minerals underground.”
President Mnangagwa’s remarks reflect a growing focus on resource nationalism as Zimbabwe seeks to balance attracting foreign direct investment with safeguarding the interests of its citizens. He called on mining companies to establish tangible infrastructure projects, including schools, clinics, and roads, in communities where they operate.
“It’s no longer business as usual. Our people must see the benefits of their resources in real-time, not promises that remain unfulfilled,” he said.
He was emphatic that Mining Companies should prioritise developing hosting communities and not damage the environment. He said Govt will reclaim those areas damaged by artisanal miners in the past. But going forward, anyone who adversely affects the environment and fails to reclaim it, should not complain when the law is enforced to its fullest extent.
Mnangagwa’s comments come as his government intensifies the enforcement of local content policies and community benefit agreements. Under Zimbabwe’s amended Mines and Minerals Act, foreign companies are required to allocate a percentage of their revenue to community development initiatives.
Minister of Mines and Mining Development Winston Chitando echoed the President’s sentiments, warning that companies failing to comply with these regulations could face license revocations. “We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to companies that do not honour their commitments to local communities,” Chitando stated.
Zimbabwe, home to some of the world’s richest deposits of gold, diamonds, lithium, and platinum, has increasingly become a focal point for global mining giants. However, Mnangagwa’s tough stance may force some foreign investors to rethink their strategies.
