EnviroPress Reporter
Kuvimba Mining House (KMH) has declined a request by villagers in Mberengwa district to surrender part of its lithium claims held through its subsidiary, Sandawanna Mines, opting instead to support local development through a Community Share Ownership Scheme (CSOS).
Villagers had petitioned KMH to cede some of the lithium-rich land, citing a desire to directly benefit from the area’s vast mineral wealth. However, the mining giant said it will retain full control of the claims while committing to empower the local community through structured, long-term development benefits.
“While we are unable to cede any of the lithium claims, we are committed to ensuring the community benefits meaningfully from mining activities through a Community Share Ownership Trust,” said KMH chief executive Simba Chinyemba.
The CSOS model, once widely promoted by the government to ensure mining companies plough back into host communities, allows local residents to own shares in mining operations and receive dividends from profits. It also facilitates funding for infrastructure, education, and health initiatives.
KMH said it will work closely with traditional leaders and local authorities to establish the trust, which will be responsible for identifying and implementing priority projects.
Sandawanna Mines has recently attracted attention due to its strategic lithium reserves, which are in high demand globally for use in electric vehicle batteries and green energy technologies.
Community members have expressed mixed reactions to the decision. While some welcomed the CSOS proposal as a step toward inclusive development, others remained skeptical, fearing the model may fall short of delivering tangible benefits.
“We appreciate the offer of a share ownership trust, but we hope it will be transparent and actually benefit the people, not just a few elites,” said one local resident.
As Zimbabwe positions itself as a key player in the global green energy supply chain, the balance between community rights and commercial interests continues to be a flashpoint in mineral-rich districts like Mberengwa.
KMH said it remains committed to ethical mining and inclusive growth, promising to engage communities regularly to ensure their concerns are addressed.
