EnviroPress Reporter
Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president and opposition politician, Dr. Takavafira Zhou, has raised alarm over what he describes as the “massive looting” of lithium by Kuvimba Mining House, calling for urgent dialogue between the mining company and local communities.
In a widely circulated audio message posted to social media this week, Zhou accused Kuvimba of conducting irresponsible and exploitative mining operations in Mberengwa, particularly at Sandawana and Mataga, without bringing tangible benefits to surrounding communities.
“The level of looting of lithium has reached unprecedented levels. This is a wake-up call for the people of Mberengwa to unite, rise and confront Kuvimba so that there is a stop to this looting. We need responsible mining,” said Zhou.
Zhou alleged that hundreds of trucks are ferrying stripped lithium ore daily to unknown destinations, damaging local roads and filling villages, schools, and business centres with dust. He also accused foreign nationals—particularly Chinese and Indian buyers—of looting K-grade emeralds, reportedly with Kuvimba’s knowledge or approval.
“We don’t know the quantity of minerals being mined. We don’t know how much revenue is being made. We don’t know where the minerals are going. Kuvimba claims to have invested US$5 million in the lithium operations, but there’s no visible sign of that investment,” Zhou charged.
He criticized the lack of transparency and local consultation, warning that if action isn’t taken, future generations will judge the community harshly for allowing such exploitation to continue unchecked.
In response, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development Polite Kambamura said the ministry has not yet received any formal complaints.
“We have not received a report over that matter. Our doors are always open to communities. They can file a complaint with the Provincial Mines Director,” said Kambamura.
Efforts to get a comment from Kuvimba Chief Executive Officer Simba Chinyemba were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Zhou has called for community-wide engagement, urging residents to unite and demand responsible mining practices, transparency, and local benefits from the resource-rich region. His comments have reignited debate around mining accountability, local empowerment, and the environmental cost of Zimbabwe’s lithium boom.
