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Dinson relocation process raises concern over compensation, livelihoods
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THE Centre for Research and Development (CRD) has raised concerns over the relocation of families affected by the US$1.5 billion Dinson Iron and Steel project in Manhize, warning that unresolved compensation and livelihood issues continue to threaten the rights and welfare of displaced communities.
In a report released on July 29, the organisation acknowledged the project's contribution to Zimbabwe's industrialisation and export growth but cautioned that its economic benefits could be overshadowed by disputes surrounding the relocation process.
"While the Manhize Iron and Steel Project has significantly contributed to Zimbabwe's industrialisation and increased steel production, unresolved relocation, compensation and livelihood restoration issues continue to affect communities displaced by the project," CRD said.
According to the report, at least 43 families have been affected by the development, with 21 households in Mushenjere Village yet to relocate after demanding improved compensation packages and better conditions at the proposed resettlement site.
CRD said some residents have continued to endure dust and noise pollution from mining activities while awaiting relocation. Those earmarked for resettlement have also raised concerns over the quality of houses, access to clean water, electricity, healthcare facilities and the availability of productive agricultural land.
The organisation said affected families are demanding an increase in their monthly food allowance from US$200 to US$500, a review of relocation agreements, compensation for graves and livestock losses, secure land tenure, properly serviced farming land and structurally sound houses before they agree to relocate.
"Affected families are calling for fair compensation, meaningful consultation and sustainable livelihood restoration. Relocation should not proceed until outstanding concerns relating to housing quality, agricultural land, food security and compensation have been adequately addressed," the report states.
CRD further alleged that tensions intensified after Dinson reportedly rejected a contractor selected by the affected families to address structural defects at the relocation site, a decision residents viewed as undermining community participation in the process.
The organisation also criticised what it described as an imbalance in the government's approach, arguing that while the State has strongly supported the investment through the granting of Special Economic Zone status, equal attention should be paid to protecting the rights and livelihoods of communities displaced by the project.
Despite the concerns, CRD acknowledged the project's economic significance, noting that Dinson generated US$100 million in steel sales during the first half of 2025 under Phase One of the project, contributing to increased steel exports and Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 industrialisation drive.
The organisation urged authorities to ensure the relocation process complies with national laws and international best practice by guaranteeing fair compensation, meaningful consultation and long-term livelihood restoration for all affected families.
Dinson had not responded to the concerns raised in the report at the time of its publication.
In a report released on July 29, the organisation acknowledged the project's contribution to Zimbabwe's industrialisation and export growth but cautioned that its economic benefits could be overshadowed by disputes surrounding the relocation process.
"While the Manhize Iron and Steel Project has significantly contributed to Zimbabwe's industrialisation and increased steel production, unresolved relocation, compensation and livelihood restoration issues continue to affect communities displaced by the project," CRD said.
According to the report, at least 43 families have been affected by the development, with 21 households in Mushenjere Village yet to relocate after demanding improved compensation packages and better conditions at the proposed resettlement site.
CRD said some residents have continued to endure dust and noise pollution from mining activities while awaiting relocation. Those earmarked for resettlement have also raised concerns over the quality of houses, access to clean water, electricity, healthcare facilities and the availability of productive agricultural land.
The organisation said affected families are demanding an increase in their monthly food allowance from US$200 to US$500, a review of relocation agreements, compensation for graves and livestock losses, secure land tenure, properly serviced farming land and structurally sound houses before they agree to relocate.
CRD further alleged that tensions intensified after Dinson reportedly rejected a contractor selected by the affected families to address structural defects at the relocation site, a decision residents viewed as undermining community participation in the process.
The organisation also criticised what it described as an imbalance in the government's approach, arguing that while the State has strongly supported the investment through the granting of Special Economic Zone status, equal attention should be paid to protecting the rights and livelihoods of communities displaced by the project.
Despite the concerns, CRD acknowledged the project's economic significance, noting that Dinson generated US$100 million in steel sales during the first half of 2025 under Phase One of the project, contributing to increased steel exports and Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 industrialisation drive.
The organisation urged authorities to ensure the relocation process complies with national laws and international best practice by guaranteeing fair compensation, meaningful consultation and long-term livelihood restoration for all affected families.
Dinson had not responded to the concerns raised in the report at the time of its publication.
Source - Midweek Watch
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