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Chinese mining companies are a liability to Mashava
2 hrs ago |
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Residents of Mashava have accused Chinese-owned mining companies operating in the area of exploiting local mineral resources while doing little to improve community infrastructure.
The residents said mining activities were accelerating the deterioration of roads in the area without corresponding investment in schools, clinics and road rehabilitation.
Speaking during a Masvingo Rural District Council 2027 Budget Consultative Meeting held at Bere Community Hall in Mashava on Thursday, resident Maria Mashawi said mining companies had failed to contribute meaningfully to local development.
"They are destroying our roads but are not contributing towards schools, clinics or road rehabilitation," Mashawi said.
Residents said some of the roads being damaged were among infrastructure constructed during the colonial era and have received limited rehabilitation over the years.
They argued that the increased movement of heavy mining equipment and haulage trucks was placing additional pressure on already deteriorating roads.
Bere Residents Association chairperson Stephen Bewu said communities should have a greater role in agreements entered into between government and mining companies operating in their areas.
He said residents should not be excluded from decisions concerning the exploitation of resources on their land.
"If these companies are exploiting our land and resources, residents must also benefit through employment and community development projects. We know what we want as a community hence, we must be engaged," Bewu said.
The residents' concerns come amid growing calls for mining companies to contribute more towards communities hosting major mineral extraction projects.
Residents said meaningful community investment should include infrastructure development, employment opportunities and support for essential public services.
They also called for greater transparency around agreements between mining companies and government, arguing that communities should be informed about commitments made by investors operating in their areas.
The Mashava concerns are likely to place increased pressure on local authorities and mining companies to demonstrate how mineral wealth is translating into tangible benefits for communities where extraction takes place.
The residents said mining activities were accelerating the deterioration of roads in the area without corresponding investment in schools, clinics and road rehabilitation.
Speaking during a Masvingo Rural District Council 2027 Budget Consultative Meeting held at Bere Community Hall in Mashava on Thursday, resident Maria Mashawi said mining companies had failed to contribute meaningfully to local development.
"They are destroying our roads but are not contributing towards schools, clinics or road rehabilitation," Mashawi said.
Residents said some of the roads being damaged were among infrastructure constructed during the colonial era and have received limited rehabilitation over the years.
They argued that the increased movement of heavy mining equipment and haulage trucks was placing additional pressure on already deteriorating roads.
He said residents should not be excluded from decisions concerning the exploitation of resources on their land.
"If these companies are exploiting our land and resources, residents must also benefit through employment and community development projects. We know what we want as a community hence, we must be engaged," Bewu said.
The residents' concerns come amid growing calls for mining companies to contribute more towards communities hosting major mineral extraction projects.
Residents said meaningful community investment should include infrastructure development, employment opportunities and support for essential public services.
They also called for greater transparency around agreements between mining companies and government, arguing that communities should be informed about commitments made by investors operating in their areas.
The Mashava concerns are likely to place increased pressure on local authorities and mining companies to demonstrate how mineral wealth is translating into tangible benefits for communities where extraction takes place.
Source - Mirror
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