Zimbabwe to revitalise Community Share Ownership Trusts

The Zimbabwean Government has moved to revitalise Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs), a flagship programme under the country's economic empowerment policy, following Cabinet's approval of new operational measures aimed at making the initiative more effective and impactful.

The CSOTs were first introduced in 2010 as part of Zimbabwe's indigenisation and economic empowerment framework to ensure local communities derive tangible benefits from the exploitation of natural resources, particularly in mining regions. However, many of the trusts have since struggled due to weak implementation, inadequate funding, and poor oversight.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Jenfan Muswere confirmed that Cabinet had approved proposals for the operationalisation of CSOTs and strengthening of the Reserved Sectors policy.

"The objective is to ensure that host communities are not left behind in the development matrix, particularly in areas where mining and other resource extraction activities take place," Dr Muswere said.

He noted that out of the 61 trusts initially established, 58 were formally registered, but several have since become dormant or failed to deliver on their mandate. In response, the Government will undertake a comprehensive review of the current implementation framework and extend corporate rescue support to the struggling trusts.

This renewed focus signals a stronger political will to empower communities and promote sustainable development at the grassroots level. The CSOTs were originally designed to give local people a direct stake in natural resource projects through shareholding and development funds for education, infrastructure, and health.

"The revitalisation of the Community Share Ownership Trusts marks a renewed commitment to grassroots empowerment and shared national prosperity," Dr Muswere said.

Analysts say the move could help rebuild trust between rural communities and extractive companies, many of whom have faced criticism for operating in resource-rich areas without delivering significant community benefits.

The updated framework is expected to include clearer governance guidelines, improved financial management, and strengthened monitoring to ensure accountability and long-term viability of the trusts.