Tiyani Hahlani
Centre News Hub
BIKITA- For nine families in Murape Village, decades of calling the place home are now coming to an end as Bikita Minerals expands its mining operations, forcing them to relocate from an area that falls within the company’s mining claim.
The families from Ward 11, Bikita District, have reached a mediation agreement with Bikita Minerals that will see them move from the area, following engagements facilitated by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC).
According to a statement issued by Bikita Minerals on August 25, the affected families have lived in the area for several decades, but the expansion of mining operations has made their continued occupation incompatible with mining activities and the need to maintain safe operating conditions within the mining lease area.
Under the agreement, Bikita Minerals will provide the nine households with financial assistance and essential construction materials to help them establish new homes.
In exchange, the families will relocate from the mining claim according to a mutually agreed schedule.
The settlement was reached through an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process facilitated by the ZHRC, following engagements involving the affected families, the mining company, and traditional leadership.
The mediation was led by ZHRC Commissioner Professor Cowen Dziva, accompanied by Masvingo Provincial Coordinator Fidelicy Nyamukondiwa and Provincial Human Rights Officer Naison G Madovi.
Bikita Minerals said the agreement was entered into freely and voluntarily by all parties after discussions facilitated by the Human Rights Commission.
Chief Marozva will provide traditional oversight throughout the relocation process, with the traditional leader expected to help maintain social cohesion and support the affected families as they settle into their new surroundings.
The agreement, however, leaves several details about the relocation package undisclosed.
The company did not state the monetary value of the financial assistance being offered to each household, the quantity of construction materials to be provided, where the families will be relocated to, or the exact date by which the move will be completed.
The company said the mediation demonstrated the value of ADR in resolving disputes between communities, companies, traditional leaders, government institutions and other stakeholders.
For the nine Murape families, the agreement represents a major transition after decades of living in the area, while for Bikita Minerals, it comes as the company continues to expand its mining operations.
Bikita Minerals spokesperson Upenyu Silent Chaota thanked the ZHRC, Chief Marozva and the affected families for their participation in the process.
“We believe this agreement provides a positive foundation for continued cooperation and demonstrates what can be achieved when stakeholders work together in good faith,” said Chaota.
The company said it remained committed to responsible mining, meaningful stakeholder engagement and sustainable socio-economic development in Bikita District.
The Murape agreement now shifts attention to the implementation of the settlement, particularly whether the promised financial support and construction materials will enable the affected households to establish new homes and make a smooth transition.
Bikita Minerals said it would continue working with local communities and relevant stakeholders to promote responsible mining and sustainable socio-economic development in the district.
