Story by Tichaona Kurewa
KAMATIVI Mining Company has awarded contracts to local businesses in a move aimed at strengthening community participation and ensuring surrounding areas benefit directly from mining activities.
The Hwange-based miner signed Memoranda of Understanding with local contractors, enabling them to undertake projects within the mine and nearby communities, as part of a broader push for inclusive development.
Beneficiaries say the initiative is already unlocking economic opportunities.
“We are into building, we build houses and durawalls, and we have been given some tenders by KMC. This year there was too much rain, and some durawalls collapsed, so we are rebuilding them,” said Power Construction Director, Ms Luzyalo Mwembe.
Mrs Rudiah Nyathi, Director of Tendering Lion said the contracts are also advancing women’s empowerment.
“I’m one of the five directors of a company from Kamativi that will be contracted by KMC to do some work within the company. We are grateful to KMC as it provides opportunities for women. This is empowerment for us; we will be able to start other businesses and be financially independent,” she said.
Local leadership has welcomed the development, highlighting its potential to widen access to economic benefits beyond formal employment.
Ward 11 Councillor, Mr Josh Tshuma said the agreements will allow smaller community-based firms to participate in mine-related activities.
“KMC signed some Memoranda of Understanding with local companies last week, which will be given tenders to perform within the mine premises and the compound. Any other small jobs that need to be done will be given to local people. This is a positive development because those who cannot be directly employed by KMC will also benefit through these small companies. This is also empowering local women through employment,” he said.
KMC Chief Operating Officer, Mr Dexi Liang said the company is committed to ensuring communities grow alongside mining operations.
“We signed community contracts with our community to make sure that our community is receiving tenders and also grows with us through this formal operation,” he said.
The move reflects a wider shift in Zimbabwe’s mining sector towards community-centred development, as companies seek to align operations with national goals of inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
