Business Correspondent
A damning report by the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) has exposed the devastating impact of Chinese investments in Zimbabwe’s extractive sector. The report, titled “Investments or Plunder,” reveals widespread environmental destruction, labor rights violations, and sexual abuse of local women.
“Every day, we receive distress calls from communities where Chinese are blasting mountains,” said Farai Maguwu, CNRG director. “Our goal is to defend these communities affected by the extractive industry.”
The report highlights the exploitation of Zimbabweans, with workers earning less than $250 per month and facing inhumane conditions.
“Employees are given short contracts with no benefits. Blacks are exploited and ill-treated with no compensation to those injured,” said Tracy Mafa, presenting the report findings.
Villagers have been displaced without compensation, and water sources polluted.
“People in my community will die of respiratory problems; roads are not maintained, and there is no respect for workers,” said Julia Nyakapoto, a Mutoko villager.
The report calls for better governance and regulation of foreign investments.
“We are attracting the wrong investors. There should be a legal framework to decide for us in any sector,” said Tashinga Zamba of ZIMCODD.
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