Kamativi’s Lithium Paradox: A Mystery to Its Own Communities
While lithium is critical to the green energy revolution, ensuring emissions are drastically reduced and emerging as a vital energy source alongside other minerals, communities in Kamativi remain largely unaware of lithium’s role in this transition. Moreover, they lack an understanding of the green energy transition itself and the by-products of lithium mining.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Critical minerals like lithium are essential for the shift to a low-carbon future. They are used in various technologies that reduce reliance on fossil fuels, including electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, and solar panels. Lithium, in particular, is prized for its high energy density, making it ideal for rechargeable batteries—a key component of green energy infrastructure. As the world seeks to mitigate climate change, the demand for lithium and other critical minerals is expected to surge, making them invaluable to the global economy and environmental sustainability.
In an effort to understand the expectations of Kamativi’s communities regarding mining operations, Mining Zimbabwe discovered that while locals are aware that companies in Kamativi are mining or processing lithium, they are not fully informed about the significance of lithium as a mineral. Many are unaware of its critical importance, and some do not even recognize lithium-bearing pegmatite rocks when they encounter them.
Speaking to Kamativi’s traditional leader, Chief Nekatambe of Dete, Hwange, it became clear that while he understands that Kamativi Mining Company (KMC) is mining and processing lithium, and Pan African mining company Bravura Group is processing the dump left by Kamativi Tin Mine for lithium, he is not aware of what lithium is used for or the broader green energy revolution.
“I’m aware that they are mining and processing lithium here. But I’m not aware of what lithium is used for,” Chief Nekatambe admitted.
He was not alone in these sentiments. Hwange Rural District Council, represented by Eng. Alic Mudenda, although aware of what lithium is, could not clearly articulate its importance to the just energy transition or even define what the just energy transition is.
“I’m aware that lithium is the core mineral being mined here by two companies, particularly Kamativi Mining Company. The call to action, especially regarding greenhouse gases and natural resources, aims to move the country into a $12 billion economy by 2030,” Eng. Mudenda said.
Are Communities Aware of the Benefits Brought by Critical Minerals?
While critical minerals like lithium are essential to the energy revolution, local communities seem more concerned with immediate employment opportunities rather than the potential export of jobs to other countries in the form of value addition, such as battery manufacturing.
“Well, they’ve definitely created employment, which is very good. What I’m looking forward to is if they can also give back to the communities, such as providing water boreholes where there are none. I would be very happy,” Chief Nekatambe expressed.
“The impact of these minerals will primarily affect Kamativi, changing the life of the community in terms of income, shelter, education, and raising money for children to go to school. Additionally, the arrival of these mines will bring benefits to the business community by generating revenue from mining operations, thereby boosting businesses around Kamativi,” Eng. Mudenda added.
Are Mining Companies Employing Enough Local People?
While community leaders were satisfied that companies were employing local people and providing them with opportunities to earn an honest living, members of the community expressed a different perspective. Ian Muleya, a local resident, noted that the community is not truly benefiting from Kamativi Mining Company’s employment, as it includes many Chinese nationals. He suggested that the Chinese should do better by engaging in more skills transfer.
Is There a Significant Change Brought by the Companies?
“Since KMC began operating, we have witnessed several changes. They have improved road infrastructure, rehabilitating the road from Kamativi town to the clinic, which was previously dilapidated. They have also made changes to the infrastructure within Kamativi, including bringing in electricity that had been vandalized in 1994,” Eng. Mudenda stated.
“At the moment, we haven’t seen much because they are not fully operational yet. But from what I’ve observed, they are doing well as far as employment is concerned. When they are hiring, they communicate with me, asking if I can submit a few names from the community to work for them. That communication pleases me very much. I also urge these workers to be 100% sober because the machines they operate are very expensive. I’m happy because this keeps them busy and away from illicit drugs. I’m happy, and I hope our president continues bringing in investors so that people can work,” Chief Nekatambe remarked.
CSR: Do They Engage?
The communities were generally satisfied with how the companies were engaging them in corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. However, there are additional expectations that communities have from these companies.
“They engage with us, and I refer them to the communities. The communities are the ones that know what they need, so I always say, go to the communities. They will tell you exactly what they require. We have mentioned that most of our schools are in very poor condition, so we have urged them to improve and even construct more blocks at certain schools. I believe they are listening to what the president is always saying,” Chief Nekatambe said.
“Regarding CSR, KMC has been engaging in activities such as rehabilitating communities, building bus terminuses, drilling boreholes, and re-articulating vandalized areas. However, it’s an area that needs reinforcement, and we also need to ensure that these initiatives are community-driven rather than company-driven,” Eng. Mudenda added.
Do They Operate in a Safe Environment?
“In terms of environmental impact, while there’s a need for improvement in protecting the environment and the people, we haven’t heard any reports of hazards affecting the community. We continue to encourage companies to protect the environment, animals, and people around the mining area. We also urge miners to discuss safety measures, including holding toolbox talks every morning,” Eng. Mudenda emphasized.
“I’ve engaged with them and observed that their protective clothing is very proper. I think in terms of health issues, it’s essential that healthy practices are maintained, and investors should ensure that people do not develop diseases over time. But I think safety first. It’s very, very important,” Chief Nekatambe concluded.
Conclusion
The community in Kamativi is undergoing significant changes due to the presence of KMC and Bravura, particularly with the mining of lithium. Improvements in infrastructure, employment opportunities, and engagement in community-driven initiatives are positive signs of how these companies are impacting the area. However, there remains a crucial need for increased awareness and education about the importance of critical minerals like lithium, which are central to the green energy revolution.
Organizations such as the Green Governance Zimbabwe Trust (GGZT) can play a vital role in bridging this knowledge gap. GGZT, with its focus on promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship, can work alongside government institutions to ensure that communities like Kamativi are well-informed about the significance of the minerals in their region. GGZT can also advocate for responsible mining practices and help align CSR initiatives with the true needs of the community.
Additionally, corporate social responsibility (CSR) must genuinely reflect the priorities of the local population for long-term sustainable development. Addressing concerns about environmental safety and health practices through ongoing dialogue between the community, companies, and organizations like GGZT will be critical. By prioritizing safety, environmental protection, and meaningful community involvement, these mining operations have the potential to bring about transformative benefits for Kamativi and ensure that the community truly benefits from its rich mineral resources.