EnviroPress Reporter

Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, has pledged to investigate growing concerns over alleged labour malpractices at Bikita Minerals, following increasing reports of unfair recruitment practices and poor working conditions at the lithium mining company.

Speaking during a provincial development coordination meeting in Masvingo, Chadzamira said his office had received numerous complaints from community members and local leaders in Bikita District, accusing the mine of overlooking qualified locals in favour of outsiders and violating labour standards.

“We have heard the grievances coming from Bikita. As government, we will not ignore the voices of our people. I want to assure you that my office will look into these allegations and engage both the company and relevant ministries to get to the bottom of this,” said Chadzamira.

The minister’s remarks come amid mounting criticism of Bikita Minerals, which stands accused of sidelining local residents in its hiring processes, subjecting workers to harsh conditions, and failing to uphold basic labour rights.

Community leaders, including Ward 9 Councillor Surprise Pembere, have been vocal in condemning the company’s alleged preference for non-local workers who are now renting in Duma location.

Chadzamira said it was unacceptable for communities hosting strategic mineral resources to be left behind, stressing that development must start with empowering those closest to the source.

“We cannot talk about devolution and inclusive development when our people are being excluded from employment opportunities created right in their backyard,” he said.

He also reminded mining companies operating in the province that they have a duty to respect Zimbabwe’s laws and development policies, particularly the constitutional mandate under Section 13(4), which requires that local communities benefit from natural resources in their areas.

“I will be visiting Bikita very soon to meet with community representatives, the company’s management, and labour officials. We want to hear all sides and ensure that fairness, transparency, and justice prevail,” Chadzamira added.

Labour unions and civil society organisations in Masvingo have welcomed Chadzamira’s statement, urging him to follow through with decisive action, including enforcing local employment quotas, improving workplace conditions, and increasing public oversight of corporate social responsibility initiatives.