The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organisation has expressed deep concern over recurring cases of violence, poor labour conditions, and environmental degradation within the country’s mining sector, urging authorities to strengthen legislation and enforce responsible investment standards.

In a statement released on Thursday, ZELO said the situation underscores the urgent need for greater accountability and ethical conduct among mining companies operating in Zimbabwe.

“These issues highlight the urgent need to strengthen laws and enforce responsible mining and investment standards in Zimbabwe,” ZELO said.

The organisation welcomed the recent statement by the Chinese Embassy in Harare, which called on Chinese firms to respect human rights and adhere to the law while operating in Zimbabwe. 

ZELO said such commitments were vital for ensuring ethical investment practices.

“Foreign investors should play a positive role in driving Zimbabwe’s sustainable development by promoting value addition, beneficiation, and inclusive economic growth,” the organisation noted, adding that collaboration with local players was key to building a responsible and transparent mining industry.

ZELO also acknowledged the Government’s efforts to reform the sector through initiatives such as the Responsible Mining Audit launched in 2023 and the ongoing development of the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill. The Bill, currently under parliamentary consideration, proposes stronger environmental, social, and governance accountability mechanisms, including third-party audits.

“ZELO recognises the Government’s progress on the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, which aims to ensure communities benefit from mining, increase company accountability, and improve stakeholder participation in the mineral sector,” the organisation said.

However, ZELO urged the authorities to strengthen the Bill’s provisions on compensation and grievance redress, noting that communities affected by mining activities often struggle to access justice or fair compensation.

“The Bill must strengthen the issue of compensation, grievance handling, and redress mechanisms,” ZELO stated.

The organisation reiterated its call for responsible mining practices that safeguard both environmental integrity and community rights, emphasising that these principles are key to sustainable development.

“ZELO continues to advocate for responsible mining practices, focusing on empowering government entities and local communities to advance environmental, economic, social, and cultural rights,” the statement read.

It also threw its weight behind the institutionalisation of Responsible Mining Audits and Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs), describing them as essential tools for evaluating compliance and mitigating risks in the mining sector.

“ZELO supports government’s efforts to institutionalise Responsible Mining Audits and strengthen ESIAs as mandatory tools for evaluating environmental and social risks and impacts in the mining sector,” the organisation said.

The environmental watchdog further encouraged alignment with global frameworks such as the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), and the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Imports & Exports (CCCMC) Guidelines for Responsible Mining.

“Chinese mining companies are therefore expected to voluntarily implement the CCCMC guidelines in addition to national legislation in Zimbabwe,” ZELO added.

On the issue of corporate governance, ZELO commended some mining companies for developing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policies, particularly under the guidance of the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe.

“ZELO acknowledges the efforts being made by some mining companies to develop Environmental, Social and Governance policies and systems,” it said. 

“These must align with Zimbabwe’s broader legal frameworks, including the Labour Act and the upcoming Occupational Health and Safety Bill.”

ZELO concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, saying strong legal frameworks are essential to ensure that the nation’s mineral wealth benefits its citizens.

“Strong legal frameworks are essential for a fair and inclusive mining economy,” the statement read.