Chipo Chigariro

Mberengwa District Development Coordinator (DDC), Wafios Hlavati, has painted a grim picture of growing disillusionment among local communities over the ongoing lithium mining operations at Sandawana Mine, saying residents have all but given up hope of ever benefiting from the resource.

Speaking during a recent development meeting in Mberengwa, DDC Hlavati said people in the district feel sidelined and neglected, as they continue to witness the large-scale extraction of lithium with little to no returns for surrounding communities.

“Our people have lost all hope. They see truckloads of lithium leaving Sandawana Mine every day, but there is no visible change in their lives. There are no jobs, no meaningful infrastructure, and no community development projects to show for the wealth being taken from their land,” said Hlavati.

Hlavati expressed concern that the disconnect between the mining activities and the needs of local people is deepening resentment, particularly among youth who feel betrayed by the promises of empowerment and employment that accompanied the project’s launch.

“Expectations were high when lithium was discovered. People believed this would be a turning point for the district. But today, many feel like spectators while their resources are being taken,” he said.

The DDC said it was time for serious dialogue between the community, the mining company — Kuvimba Mining House — and government stakeholders to address grievances and rebuild trust.

“The Constitution is clear under Section 13(4) that communities must benefit from local resources. We must work to ensure this isn’t just a clause on paper, but a lived reality for the people of Mberengwa,” he emphasized.

Civil society organisations and traditional leaders have echoed Hlavati’s concerns, with some calling for a full audit of community benefit agreements and increased transparency around how the lithium revenues are being used.

Despite its vast mineral wealth, Mberengwa remains underdeveloped, with many areas lacking proper roads, clinics, schools, and access to clean water. Residents say the lithium boom has so far brought dust and disappointment rather than progress and prosperity.

Calls are now growing for a structured community development plan tied to mining operations, including local employment quotas, corporate social responsibility investments, and regular community consultations.