EMA's Mr. P. Sibanda remarks at the ZELoO educative workshop held at council Chambers Bubi RDC

Описание: EMA's Mr. P. Sibanda Addresses Grievances on Environmental Harm by Investors and Miners at ZELO Workshop in Bubi RDC
Bubi RDC Council Chambers, [14/11/2025] – The ZELO capacitating and educative workshop at the Bubi Rural District Council Chambers, featuring Mr. P. Sibanda from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), provided a critical platform for community empowerment and also became an arena for airing pressing environmental grievances. While Mr. Sibanda delivered crucial information on environmental regulations, the session was significantly shaped by heartfelt complaints from the community regarding the ecological damage caused by investors and mining operations in the district.

The workshop, designed to enlighten local stakeholders on sustainable practices, quickly transitioned into a dialogue where residents articulated their direct experiences with environmental degradation. Mr. Sibanda, known for EMA's commitment to community engagement, attentively listened as participant after participant voiced their concerns.

A dominant theme of the complaints revolved around the perceived environmental harm inflicted by certain investors. Community members highlighted instances where new developments or projects, often spearheaded by external entities, appeared to bypass rigorous environmental standards or neglected their social and environmental responsibilities.

Even more poignant were the complaints directed at the mining sector. Residents spoke passionately about how mining activities, particularly open-cast operations, were irrevocably altering the landscape. "They are destroying our monumental mountains," one agitated participant stated, referring to historical and culturally significant geological formations being reduced to rubble. "These mountains are part of our heritage, our identity, and they are being taken away for profit."

Concerns about rampant deforestation linked to mining operations were also loudly expressed. Locals lamented the clearing of vast tracts of land for mining sites and associated infrastructure, leading to habitat loss, soil erosion, and disruption of local ecosystems. "Our forests are disappearing," another community member shared, "and with them, the clean air and traditional resources we rely on."

The impact of open-cast mining drew particular ire. Participants detailed how these large-scale operations lead to significant land scarring, dust pollution affecting both human health and agricultural productivity, and the contamination of water sources. The long-term consequences of such destructive methods on their livelihoods and health were evident in their testimonies.

In response, Mr. P. Sibanda acknowledged the validity and seriousness of the complaints. He reaffirmed EMA's commitment to holding all entities, including investors and miners, accountable for their environmental conduct. He explained the legal provisions within the Environmental Management Act that govern mining operations and investor projects, including the mandatory requirement for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Environmental Management Plans (EMPs).

"We understand your frustrations, and your voices are crucial," Mr. Sibanda stated. He encouraged the community to formally report environmental violations to EMA, assuring them that every complaint would be investigated. He also emphasized the importance of community participation in EIA processes, urging them to actively review and provide input on proposed projects in their areas.

Mr. Sibanda further elaborated on the penalties for non-compliance and the mechanisms EMA has in place to enforce environmental standards, including issuing orders, imposing fines, and, in severe cases, halting operations. He also discussed the possibility of engaging with investors and miners to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies and practices.

The workshop concluded with a shared understanding that while development is necessary, it must not come at the expense of the environment and community well-being. The ZELO initiative, through Mr. Sibanda's engagement, not only educated but also provided a vital channel for the Bubi community to articulate their environmental injustices, reinforcing the message that their concerns are heard and valued in the pursuit of sustainable development.