THE Youth Accountability Initiative (YAI) says irresponsible mining is deepening inequality in Zimbabwe, with women and young people bearing the heaviest burden of environmental destruction and lost livelihoods.
Speaking as part of the Accountability Crew spotlight, YAI representative Ropafadzo Mutsango said resource extraction cannot continue without placing people and the environment at the centre.
“Irresponsible mining does not affect everyone equally. Environmental destruction can disrupt livelihoods, reduce opportunities and leave communities carrying the costs of resource extraction,” Mutsango said.
“For women and young people, this means fewer chances to farm, to trade, and to build stable futures.”
Mutsango said accountability in the mining sector must go beyond how minerals are extracted.
“Accountability must go beyond extraction. Value addition matters. Communities and countries should benefit from processing minerals, creating jobs, building skills and generating economic opportunities closer to where resources are found,” she said.
YAI argues that Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth should translate into local development, not just corporate profit. The organisation continues to push for policies that ensure communities see direct benefits from mining activities in their areas.
“The Youth Accountability Initiative continues to advocate for mining that protects both the dignity of people and the environment,” Mutsango said. “Our minerals should create value. Our communities should benefit. And those who cause harm must pay for the harm.”
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The call comes as the government pushes to expand mining output and attract investment. Civil society groups have, however, warned that without stronger regulation and local beneficiation, mining risks deepening poverty and environmental damage.
YAI says women and youth must be included in decision-making around mining from licensing to rehabilitation to ensure the sector contributes to sustainable development.
