Stakeholder Dialogue in Zimbabwe

A study commissioned by TruStone identifies risks for workers and local communities, including unsafe working conditions, limited labour rights, impacts on land rights and livelihoods, environmental damage and pollution. Explosions, dust, noise and heavy truck traffic also affect local residents and agricultural activities. According to the study, Zimbabwe's mining legislation provides communities with insufficient opportunities to protect their rights or raise concerns about adverse impacts.

For international buyers, the report highlights the importance of gaining a better understanding of the origin and production chain and of actively engaging in addressing risks. It recommends engaging with workers and affected communities and taking measures to prevent, mitigate and, where necessary, remedy adverse impacts.

The study also points out that trade unions and civil society organisations have limited access and influence, and that information about mining companies, permits and buyers is not always readily available.The project therefore also explores which stakeholders in Zimbabwe should be involved and how an effective dialogue can be established between companies (suppliers and importers), government authorities and local civil society organisations (trade unions and NGOs).

Projectpartners:

Companies:

• Arte
• Jetstone
• Kemie
• Mondial (Italië)
• Tuytelaers

Parties:

• ActionAid

Financial support:

• Netherlands Enterprise Agency – RVO

Project duration:

• mid-2023 to the end of 2027