Mnangagwa warns errant investors

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a stern warning to foreign investors who flout Zimbabwe's laws, telling those unwilling to comply with national regulations, traditions and customs to leave the country.

Mnangagwa made the remarks on Wednesday while addressing the National Annual Chiefs Conference in Harare, which was attended by traditional leaders from across the country. His warning comes amid growing reports of human rights abuses and environmental violations linked to some investment projects.

"Investors are, once again, called upon to respect our laws, traditions and customs," Mnangagwa said. "Those who don't want to follow our laws should go back to their countries."

The President's comments follow persistent allegations by civil society organisations and affected communities against certain investors, notably Chinese nationals, accused of beatings, forced displacements without compensation and the desecration of graves to pave the way for mining operations. There have also been numerous reports of local workers being subjected to excessively long working hours and failing to receive their wages and benefits.

Mnangagwa emphasised the central role of traditional leaders in safeguarding land and natural resources, calling for their mandatory involvement in oversight processes.

"You, our esteemed chiefs, are the custodians of the land, environment as well as natural resources," he said. "I, therefore, urge you to continue ensuring that investment projects, including mining activities, are done responsibly and sustainably."

He further directed key government institutions, including the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, local authorities, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and the Forestry Commission, to ensure meaningful consultation with communities before projects are approved.

"The Ministry of Mines, councils, EMA and the Forestry Commission, among other stakeholders, are challenged to ensure that local communities are consulted and participate during environmental impact assessments," Mnangagwa said. "Don't work alone in your offices. Our chiefs and others should know what you are doing in their villages."

The President said his administration would continue to insist that all investments are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, ensuring that communities, as well as women and young people, benefit from the country's natural resources.

Reflecting on the purpose of the conference, Mnangagwa said it provided a platform to address challenges affecting rural communities. He also praised traditional leaders for their historic role in the liberation struggle and for their continued support of his administration and the ruling Zanu-PF party.

"May I also express my heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering and gallant support provided by the traditional leadership to my administration and our revolutionary mass party, Zanu-PF," he said.

"As we work hard, community by community, towards Vision 2030, let us continue to be united, patriotic and focused, and always implement decisions, projects and programmes that carry our nation forward."