Buy local, Bikita residents urge lithium mine

EnviroPress Reporter

Residents and business leaders in Bikita are calling on Bikita Minerals, a Chinese-owned lithium mining company to prioritise local suppliers and contractors to stimulate economic growth in the district.

The demand comes amid growing concerns that the mine, one of Zimbabwe’s largest lithium producers, is accused of sidelining local businesses in favour of Chinese suppliers based in Harare. This has left the community with minimal economic benefits despite the vast mineral wealth being extracted from their area.

At a recent community mining symposium organised by EnviroPress Zimbabwe in partnership with Southern Africa Trust held in Bikita, business owners, local leaders, and residents expressed frustration over the mine’s procurement practices, which they claim overlook local enterprises in sourcing goods and services.

“We have skilled contractors, suppliers, and laborers in Bikita, but the mine continues to bring everything from outside, even basic supplies that we can provide. This is our resource, and we should be the first to benefit,” said Tinashe Moyo, a local hardware store owner.

Bikita Business Association chairperson Charles Musimiki highlighted that while the mine has created some employment opportunities, the lack of local procurement is stifling broader economic development.

“Jobs alone are not enough. If Bikita Minerals sourced even 30 percent of its goods and services locally, it would transform this district,” said Musimiki.

Other participants argued that other mining companies in Zimbabwe mandate a certain percentage of supplies to be sourced from within the host community.

Murape village head and Ward 11 Councillor Lawrence Vhovha said procuring goods and services from local suppliers and villagers would improve local livelihoods.
“Local businesses and even individuals should get fair opportunities. The mine must commit to empowering the people whose land and resources are exploited,” said Vhovha.

Bikita Minerals spokesperson Collen Nikisi said the mine was committed to local empowerment and pointed out the existing corporate social responsibility programmes.

The issue has also drawn attention from policymakers. A member of the Masvingo Provincial Development Committee confirmed that discussions are underway to engage Bikita Minerals on the matter.

Editor Enviro

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