BUHERA, Zimbabwe – The expansion of Sabi Star Lithium Mine has raised concerns over the alleged wanton destruction of agricultural land and the potential displacement of approximately 20 families, affecting an estimated 120 people in Ward 12, Buhera District.
Residents of Tagarira Village who spoke to this publication say heavy mining machinery entered community farmland four days ago without meaningful consultation, disrupting agricultural activities and threatening the livelihoods of families who depend largely on subsistence farming and livestock production.
“We just woke up to the noise of heavy mining vehicles entering our villages and clearing our land.Its disheartening that noone was told of this development,”revealed a distraught villager who refused to be named.
Another villager who only identified himself as ‘Cde’ lashed out at corrupt government officials for recieving kickbacks from the miner and turn deaf ears on the poor.
“We have names of officials from Buhera Rural Council who are recieving bribes from Sabi Mine and have decided not to listen to our pleas,”he fumed.
The reported developments have heightened concerns over land loss, water scarcity and environmental degradation linked to mining activities in the area.
Women and girls are among those facing potential hardship, as the loss of productive land could undermine household food security, income generation and access to essential resources.
Community leaders warn that mounting economic pressures could increase the risk of school dropouts, exploitation and early marriages among girls.
Women living with disabilities are considered particularly vulnerable, as displacement could further restrict their access to healthcare, support services and livelihood opportunities.
The Buhera Residents Network Trust (BRNT) says the situation raises questions about compliance with rights protected under Zimbabwe’s Constitution, including the rights to equality and dignity, children’s protection and education, and access to safe and clean water.
The concerns also touch on regional and international human rights instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
BRNT has called for urgent dialogue between the mining company and affected communities, meaningful consultation, safeguards for potentially displaced families and measures to protect residents’ livelihoods and fundamental rights.
The organisation maintains that mining development should be pursued in a manner that respects the dignity, welfare and interests of communities living in affected areas.
“We are not against development or mining,” a community representative said. “We are asking that our rights, our livelihoods, and the future of our children be respected.”
Efforts to get a comment from Sabi Star Lithium Mine company and Buhera Rural District Council hit a snag.