Marange Diamonds has pledged to establish income-generating projects for Chiadzwa villagers relocated to Arda Transau in a bid to reduce their dependence on handouts.
By Obey Manayiti Staff Reporter
Following their displacement from Chiadzwa last year, the villagers repeatedly clashed with several diamond mining firms over unfulfilled promises.
During a tour of the projects at Arda Transau on Wednesday, Marange Resources corporate affairs manager Muriel Nqwababa said the company had resolved to identify ways through which they could empower the displaced community.
“Our priority is on income generating projects for the community. There is need for a paradigm shift from co-operatives to individualistic entrepreneurship approach. To achieve this, we will be guided by the government and the Millennium Development Goals. We hope to keep cordial relationships with the community,” Nqwababa said.
Some displaced villagers disclosed that although they were satisfied with their living conditions, several areas still needed attention.
“Overtime, we have seen a lot of changes in terms of our living conditions. As compared to conditions we were subjected to during the illegal mining days in Chiadzwa such as random police blitz, attack by illegal panners and pollution, we are generally happy here,” said one resident Luckmore Nyangani.
“The houses are up to standard yet we are still receiving food handouts. There is now a school and a clinic in this area which, according to my understanding, is a good gesture by the mining company.” Marange relocation committee chairperson Goodwell Mufumira also said: “We have cultural rights that we feel need to be looked into.
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“This might not be solely the responsibility of mining companies because the government needs to chip in as well.”
