Dr. Polite Kambamura, Zimbabwe’s newly appointed Minister of Mines and Mining Development, has unveiled a bold policy shift aimed at ensuring mineral wealth benefits local communities. Moving beyond traditional corporate social responsibility, his “Resource Nationalism 2.0” emphasizes corporate investment, sustainable development, and long-term community gains.
Kambamura’s strategy is built on five pillars:
- Social Pillar – Replace CSR with mandatory, sustainable community investment.
- Economic & Governance Pillar – Digitize data, conduct national mineral surveys, and improve transparency in mining rights.
- Innovation & Technology Pillar – Promote smart mining, drones, and advanced geological systems.
- Environmental Pillar – Create an in-house environmental department for accountable oversight.
- Investment & Human Capital Pillar – Ensure quality investors, skills transfer, and local workforce development.
The initiative aims to curb smuggling, boost export revenues, and transform mining communities into sustainable, prosperous zones. Analysts note the approach balances data-driven governance, community equity, and investor clarity, but challenges include political dynamics, funding national surveys, and implementing new regulations.
Kambamura’s appointment reflects President Mnangagwa’s vision to maximize mining’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s economy while ensuring that local communities and the state share the benefits of the nation’s natural resources.