Zimbabwe Needs to Think Beyond Extracting Critical Minerals — Bore
As the global transition toward a low-carbon economy accelerates, the demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements is skyrocketing. Zimbabwe, with its abundant deposits of these minerals, has a unique opportunity not only to supply the world but also to move beyond mere extraction and focus on value addition within its borders, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the recent Zimbabwe Alternative Mining Indaba (ZAMI) cocktail event at Rainbow Hotel in Bulawayo, Obert Bore, a representative of the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA), emphasized that exploiting these resources must be done holistically to maximize benefits while minimizing environmental and social impacts.
Bore underscored the importance of a comprehensive approach to critical minerals. “It’s crucial to consider the entire value chain, from exploration to processing and export. We need to ensure that Zimbabwe benefits at every stage,” he said.
Building Capacity and Expertise
One of the major challenges Zimbabwe faces is capacity building. Bore highlighted the need to develop the skills and expertise required to manage the country’s mineral resources effectively. This includes not only technical capabilities but also robust legal and regulatory frameworks to promote transparency and accountability.
In addition, Bore called for investments in research, innovation, and technology transfer to enhance Zimbabwe’s ability to refine and manufacture products from its critical minerals. By prioritizing these efforts, Zimbabwe could establish itself as a key player in the green economy, with opportunities to lead in areas such as battery production, electric vehicle components, and renewable energy technologies.
Engaging Local Communities
Bore stressed the vital role of local communities in the mining sector. “Communities should be active participants in the development process, and their rights and interests must be protected,” he said. He advocated for meaningful consultation and the establishment of benefit-sharing mechanisms to empower mining regions and ensure they gain from value addition initiatives.
Toward a Sustainable Future
As Zimbabwe seeks to capitalize on its mineral wealth, achieving a balance between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social justice is critical. A holistic approach that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and community engagement will ensure that the country’s critical minerals contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future.
Bore concluded by urging Zimbabwe to develop a strategic plan to invest in infrastructure, processing facilities, and technologies that enhance value addition. With the right policies and investments, Zimbabwe could position itself at the forefront of the green energy revolution, serving as a model for other resource-rich nations.