A TWO-DAY workshop focused on ensuring responsible mining practices in Zimbabwe wrapped up yesterday at the Holiday Inn in Mutare.
Convened by the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe in partnership with Silveira House and funded by DAI, the event brought together key stakeholders, including the Gwanda Community Share Ownership Trust (CSOT), local community leaders and mining industry representatives.
The workshop aimed to develop voluntary guidelines for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policies and strategies within the mining sector.
Participants engaged in multi-stakeholder dialogue, sharing insights and experiences to enhance the sustainability of mining practices in Zimbabwe.
A senior official from the Mines and Mining Development ministry emphasised the importance of collaboration among the government, mining companies and local communities.
“Collaboration among government, mining companies, and communities is essential for sustainable mining and mutual benefit,” he said.
“This workshop is a significant step towards fostering responsible mining practices. By developing these ESG guidelines together, we ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard,” said Caleb Nkala chief executive officer for Gwanda CSOT.
Workshop participants highlighted the urgent need for transparent reporting on ESG performance.
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“Voluntary reporting will not only enhance accountability but also build trust between mining companies and the communities they operate in,” remarked Zandile Mvududu, projects manager at Silveira House.
She noted that such transparency is crucial for addressing local grievances and improving community relations.
Community representatives expressed concern regarding past mining activities and called for strict regulation to protect the environment and livelihoods.
“We hope these guidelines will lead to meaningful changes that benefit both the industry and the communities,” said a community leader in Marange.
The outcomes of the workshop will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will serve as a foundation for the development of the ESG guidelines.
The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe plans to present these guidelines to the broader mining community in the coming months, aiming for a more sustainable and responsible mining future in the country.
