Lithium Company injects millions in community projects.

By Rutendo Mapfumo

The Chinese investor for Kamativi Mining Company (KMC) in Hwange district has injected US$2 million towards community projects that will benefit surrounding residents as the once derelict town begins to show signs of life.

Traditional leaders and community leaders have applauded the efforts made by the investor in resuscitating the Kamativi community which had been idle for more than 30 years once known for tin production up to the 1990s.

The Yahua Group president Mr Meng Yang said the company is willing to work with the government and the community of Kamativi to ensure that life is restored.

“We have so far invested over US$2 million in various community projects. These include, but not limited to rehabilitation of community roads, resuscitation of electricity and water supplies while donating an assortment of needs to local schools and the clinic,” said Yang.

“Our CSR efforts are therefore an extension of that purposeful work, to instil confidence and allow the community to buy into and share our vision,” he continued.

The China-Zimbabwe relations remain anchored in the operation principle of consultation, collaboration, construction and shared prosperity.

“Under the support of the government of Zimbabwe, we will develop Kamativi mine n into a paragon of modernity technological prowess,” he said.

Yahua Group remains one of the world’s largest suppliers of lithium hydroxide. The group envisages Zimbabwe as a significant base for the development and processing of lithium resources. Ward 11 Councillor, Joshua Tshuma appreciated the efforts by the Yahua Group saying their presence has brought life to Kamativi.

“Our roads have been fixed, we even have access to clean water, thanks to KMC,” he said. Kamativi was known for having the worst roads, and the then closed tin mine had left water bodies which had become a danger to the community.

“There were abandoned dams which were infested by crocodiles, but the new company has come and protected the water bodies, our children are safer now,” said Luyando Sianzundu , a villager from Ward 11.

Meanwhile, KMC has contributed significantly to the country’s GDP, having contributed US$8 million in taxes so far.

Last week, President Emmerson Mnagagwa officially commissioned the KMC phase one Lithium processing plant. The company has so far employed 1 000 locals and will employ more as they open Phase 2 of the lithium plant.