By Charity Muchandiwona
Gweru — The inclusion of all stakeholders has been highlighted as a critical strategy in addressing Development-Induced Displacement (DIDs). This message emerged during a workshop organized by the Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation (CCMT) in Gweru on Wednesday. The event brought together key stakeholders from the Midlands Province, including representatives from the Provincial Administration, the Ministries of Local Government and Lands, District Administrators, community leaders, and academics from Midlands State University.
The discussions underscored the increasing prevalence of DIDs as Zimbabwe pursues its development agenda under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “Zimbabwe is open for business” mantra. Major projects such as the USD $1.5 billion iron and steel venture in Manhize, urban expansion, and rural growth point developments are driving displacement, often at the cost of communities’ homes, livelihoods, and cultural heritage.
Despite existing policies aimed at ensuring mutual agreements and alternative land allocation for displaced communities, gaps in implementation persist. These include unclear timelines for public notices, inadequate impact assessments, insufficient measures for livelihood rehabilitation, and limited protections for cultural heritage.
CCMT has recorded notable successes in managing such conflicts, largely due to its focus on inclusive negotiations. Dr. Mxolisi Sillah, a CCMT board member, cited the landmark agreement between the Bungwe community and Zimasco, a major mining corporation, as a case in point.
“We facilitated a groundbreaking agreement in Mberengwa’s Bungwe area, where Zimasco engaged directly with grassroots communities. This level of cooperation is unprecedented and serves as a model for addressing DIDs,” Dr. Sillah said. He added that similar successes had been achieved in Gokwe and Muchakata, where proactive engagement strategies prevented potential conflicts tied to urban expansion.
“CCMT’s role is to bring all stakeholders to the table and develop conflict management strategies that result in win-win outcomes. Next week, the Muchakata community is set to formalize an agreement with the Vungu Rural District Council and other stakeholders,” Dr. Sillah noted.
During the workshop, Mberengwa District Development Coordinator (DDC), Mr. Vafios Hlabati, shared the progress made in facilitating peaceful transitions for communities displaced by the expansion of Mataga Growth Point.
“A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Mberengwa Rural District Council and the Gorogwe community, affecting 79 members. The agreement included compensation through residential stands and participation in the Chaora and Chamakudo irrigation schemes to support livelihoods,” Mr. Hlabati explained.
Similarly, Kwekwe District Development Coordinator, Mr. Fortune Mpungu, highlighted efforts to balance mining operations with community interests. He pointed to the successful collaboration that safeguarded the Global Phoenix School, which had faced potential destruction from mining activities.
Traditional leaders also emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement. Chief Bunina Chisadza of Lower Gweru stressed the need for consultation and education to avoid conflicts.
“As a chief, I fully support development, but it is essential to involve headmen and community members in the decision-making process to ensure transparency and inclusivity,” he said.
With ongoing efforts to refine legislative frameworks and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, the workshop concluded with a call for enhanced community engagement to ensure equitable and sustainable development.