Business Reporter
Villagers from Kapere and Chasara in Hurungwe have filed an urgent appeal with the Environment Ministry to halt the construction of a cement manufacturing plant by Labenmon Investments, a Chinese company.
The villagers, represented by human rights lawyers Tinashe Chinopfukutwa and Kelvin Kabaya, are requesting the cancellation of the company’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate.
Background of the Issue
Labenmon Investments began operations in the area in July 2024, marking off land in the Magunje, Katenhe area under ward 11. This land includes vital grazing fields and farming land, affecting approximately 23 families. The villagers were reportedly not consulted regarding the EIA submission or the issuance of the certificate, which they claim was improperly granted to a related entity, Wih-Zim Construction Investments Cement Manufacturing.
Legal Arguments Presented
The lawyers argue that the Director-General of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) acted unlawfully by issuing the EIA certificate without first reviewing the EIA report from Labenmon Investments, violating sections 100(1) and 100(2) of the Environmental Management Act. They assert that the Director-General failed to conduct necessary public consultations with the affected villagers, which is a requirement under section 136 of the same act.
The appeal highlights several legal missteps, including:
- Lack of Consultation: The villagers were not given an opportunity to voice their concerns or be heard regarding the proposed plant.
- Improper Issuance of EIA Certificate: The EIA certificate did not meet the legal requirements, such as specifying the registered address of Labenmon Investments, as mandated by section 100(5)(b) of the Environmental Management Act.
Conclusion
The villagers’ appeal underscores significant concerns regarding environmental justice and community rights in the face of industrial development. They are seeking legal redress to ensure that their voices are heard and that proper environmental protocols are followed before any construction proceeds.
Zim GBC News©2024