Story by Tamuka Charakupa
GOVERNMENT has appointed and inducted trustees for 15 Community Economic Empowerment Trust Boards as it accelerates the establishment of 46 more boards across the country.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, aims to strengthen community participation in economic development and ensure local communities benefit from the sustainable utilisation of natural resources. The induction workshop is being held in Kadoma.
Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu said Government has introduced a framework requiring qualifying mining investments to channel at least two percent of their gross annual revenue towards community development through the Trusts.
“Communities should not be viewed as charity cases. They are rightful stakeholders in the resources found within their areas and deserve to benefit from them. These Trusts provide a structured platform for communities to participate in economic development, finance local projects and improve livelihoods through the responsible utilisation of their natural resources.”
The workshop also underscored the importance of a whole-of-government approach, with ministries expected to align their programmes to support community economic empowerment and the attainment of Vision 2030.
Minister of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, said: “Government is embracing a whole-of-government approach. By working together, we can empower communities, strengthen livelihoods and ensure no one and no place is left behind.”
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo, said the Trusts will play a key role in advancing the devolution agenda.
“We view these Trusts as critical instruments for deepening devolution and strengthening local governance. We will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure they function effectively.”
Chief Chikwaka welcomed the initiative, saying it gives communities a greater stake in the management of local resources.
“We thank President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for ensuring that communities benefit from the resources found within their own areas. As traditional leaders, we will champion this programme and work with our communities to establish viable enterprises.”
The Community Economic Empowerment Trusts are expected to complement the devolution agenda by promoting inclusive economic growth and ensuring communities directly benefit from the exploitation of resources within their areas.
