Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs minister Albert Nguluvhe has challenged Gwanda Lithium to intensify its contribution to host communities through infrastructure development, local beneficiation, and stronger corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes.
Speaking during a high-level stakeholder engagement meeting at the mine — attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and community representatives — Nguluvhe said mining investment must translate into tangible benefits for local people.
“We appreciate the investment being made in our province. At the same time, there must be harmonious coexistence between the investor and the community,” he said.
“Our natural resources must contribute meaningfully towards improving the lives of our people and developing the province.”
He urged the company to strengthen engagement with local authorities and comply with all relevant legislation.
A major concern raised during the meeting was the deterioration of roads caused by heavy trucks transporting lithium ore.
The Ministry of Transport said about 157 kilometres of road infrastructure had been affected, with some sections having exceeded their design lifespan and developing structural defects.
Nguluvhe said road damage and dust from heavy truck movements were affecting communities, businesses, and other road users.
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The Health ministry also raised concerns over the health effects of persistent dust exposure and transport challenges when moving patients to hospital.
Gwanda Lithium reported investments of about US$59 million in its lithium operations, with a processing plant capacity of one million tonnes per annum.
Its Dingold gold operations have attracted about US$115 million.
However, the company cited challenges including export permit delays, dust emissions, and road deterioration.
In response to dust pollution, the company is undertaking water sprinkling and regular road grading, and has committed to progressively upgrading affected earth roads to gravel and more durable surfaces.
On CSR, Gwanda Lithium reported supporting schools, clinics, and government institutions, while completing three solar-powered boreholes in Vela, Mandihongola, and Tshongwe villages.
Community representatives welcomed the water projects, but called for outstanding commitments on school refurbishment, learning materials, and clinic equipment to be honoured.
Chief Hwadalala commended the company’s contributions, but urged it to honour outstanding pledges and pursue greater local beneficiation so communities derive more value from extracted minerals.
The Environmental Management Agency called for stronger dust-suppression measures and regular reviews of tailings management infrastructure, while the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) encouraged timely registration of new employees.
Nguluvhe urged the company to prioritise local employment, skills development, and procurement.
He also appealed for support towards the local health system, including an ambulance for the clinic when financially feasible.
“Mining investment should go beyond mineral extraction,” Nguluvhe said, adding that collaboration was critical to ensuring Matabeleland South’s mineral wealth translates into improved infrastructure, employment, and sustainable socio-economic development.
