News / National
ZimAlloys engages communities as mining operations set to begin
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In a dusty, overcrowded classroom at Mapeume Secondary School, tension mixed with anticipation as villagers from Insiza and Mberengwa gathered to meet representatives from Zimbabwe Alloys Limited (ZimAlloys), a subsidiary of Kuvimba Mining House (KMH).
This was no ordinary meeting. For years, mining companies had passed through the region, leaving behind gaping pits and dashed hopes. But on this day, as part of KMH's town hall series, the community finally had a platform to speak directly to those who intended to mine the land once again.
"This classroom shows our struggles," said Alexander Maphosa, the vice-chairperson of the school, standing beside a worn chalkboard. "Parents have tried to build more classrooms, but we don't have what we need. Classes are overcrowded and, if someone gets sick, the nearest clinic is 11 kilometres away."
Mapeume Secondary School, which lies along the border of Matabeleland South and Midlands provinces, has only two classroom blocks. It lacks a perimeter fence, sports grounds, and other basic infrastructure. The meeting space - a schoolroom meant for learning - had become a hub of community negotiation and hope.
A woman from the crowd raised her voice with frustration. "Our cattle keep falling into pits left by previous mining companies. These cattle are our livelihood." Her concerns were echoed by others who called for dip tanks, dams, bridges, and better health and education facilities.
Traditional leaders also stepped in to support the community's appeal. Chief Chizungu urged the mining company to go beyond promises. "We appreciate this meeting," he said, "but it shouldn't end here. You must fix the land and ensure development is shared fairly. Our area is under three chiefs - everyone should benefit."
Chief Bankwe added his voice, highlighting the long trail of broken commitments by past miners. "Other companies came with deals and left without delivering. If ZimAlloys wants our trust, it must keep its word."
ZimAlloys intends to operate on a mining claim that stretches across Insiza and Mberengwa districts, and KMH says the town hall meetings are central to ensuring local voices guide their operations.
Dalindyebo Miso-Mbele, metallurgical lead at ZimAlloys, assured villagers that their concerns were being taken seriously. "We are here to listen first," he said. "Kuvimba Mining House believes in responsible mining. We will create over 30 local jobs and prioritise land restoration. We aim to build, not just take."
As the meeting ended, residents lingered in small groups outside the school, reflecting on what they had heard. For many, this was the first time a mining company had made space for real community engagement.
Yet even as hope flickered, caution remained. Villagers know that listening is only the beginning - delivery is what will truly matter.
In a region long scarred by extractive ventures, the KMH town hall has rekindled optimism. Now, communities wait to see if their words will translate into lasting, visible change.
This was no ordinary meeting. For years, mining companies had passed through the region, leaving behind gaping pits and dashed hopes. But on this day, as part of KMH's town hall series, the community finally had a platform to speak directly to those who intended to mine the land once again.
"This classroom shows our struggles," said Alexander Maphosa, the vice-chairperson of the school, standing beside a worn chalkboard. "Parents have tried to build more classrooms, but we don't have what we need. Classes are overcrowded and, if someone gets sick, the nearest clinic is 11 kilometres away."
Mapeume Secondary School, which lies along the border of Matabeleland South and Midlands provinces, has only two classroom blocks. It lacks a perimeter fence, sports grounds, and other basic infrastructure. The meeting space - a schoolroom meant for learning - had become a hub of community negotiation and hope.
A woman from the crowd raised her voice with frustration. "Our cattle keep falling into pits left by previous mining companies. These cattle are our livelihood." Her concerns were echoed by others who called for dip tanks, dams, bridges, and better health and education facilities.
Traditional leaders also stepped in to support the community's appeal. Chief Chizungu urged the mining company to go beyond promises. "We appreciate this meeting," he said, "but it shouldn't end here. You must fix the land and ensure development is shared fairly. Our area is under three chiefs - everyone should benefit."
Chief Bankwe added his voice, highlighting the long trail of broken commitments by past miners. "Other companies came with deals and left without delivering. If ZimAlloys wants our trust, it must keep its word."
ZimAlloys intends to operate on a mining claim that stretches across Insiza and Mberengwa districts, and KMH says the town hall meetings are central to ensuring local voices guide their operations.
Dalindyebo Miso-Mbele, metallurgical lead at ZimAlloys, assured villagers that their concerns were being taken seriously. "We are here to listen first," he said. "Kuvimba Mining House believes in responsible mining. We will create over 30 local jobs and prioritise land restoration. We aim to build, not just take."
As the meeting ended, residents lingered in small groups outside the school, reflecting on what they had heard. For many, this was the first time a mining company had made space for real community engagement.
Yet even as hope flickered, caution remained. Villagers know that listening is only the beginning - delivery is what will truly matter.
In a region long scarred by extractive ventures, the KMH town hall has rekindled optimism. Now, communities wait to see if their words will translate into lasting, visible change.
Source - newsday
