The president of Young Miners for Economic Development (YMED), Mr. Nyasha Magadhi, has called on the Government to implement policies that enhance the economic and social benefits derived by Zimbabweans from the country’s mining sector.
A staunch advocate for youth empowerment and increased local participation in mining, Mr. Magadhi stressed the need for frameworks that prioritise skills transfer, local employment, and economic inclusion across the entire mining value chain.
Key Areas for Government Intervention
Speaking on the need for greater local involvement, Mr. Magadhi outlined three critical areas where Government policies could have a transformative impact:
- Skills Transfer and Employment Practices:
Mr. Magadhi proposed that mining companies be required to employ local human resources (HR) managers who have the autonomy to make independent employment decisions. This, he said, would ensure fair recruitment practices and maximise opportunities for Zimbabwean workers.“The human resources managers should be locals who understand our workforce and can ensure fair opportunities for Zimbabweans. Companies can provide the qualifications and criteria they are looking for, and it is up to the HR manager to handle the recruitment process,” he said. - Inclusion of Local Businesses:
To stimulate local economic growth, Mr. Magadhi urged the Government to mandate the inclusion of Zimbabwean suppliers in the mining value chain. He advocated for policies that prioritise local businesses in procurement processes, ensuring that mining sector revenues circulate within the Zimbabwean economy. - Local Contractor Registration and Tax Contribution:
Mr. Magadhi highlighted the importance of ensuring that all contractors operating in Zimbabwe’s mining sector are registered locally and contribute to the country’s tax base. He argued that this approach would not only increase revenue for the Government but also create a level playing field for local entrepreneurs.
Empowering Zimbabweans Through Mining
At the heart of Mr. Magadhi’s recommendations is the belief that Zimbabweans should be the primary beneficiaries of the country’s vast mineral wealth. By enforcing policies that support local employment, business participation, and skills development, the Government can unlock the full potential of the mining sector for the benefit of the nation.
YMED continues to champion initiatives that empower young people and promote inclusive economic development within the mining industry.
Mr. Magadhi’s call for action comes at a time when the sector is experiencing significant growth, making it an opportune moment to implement measures that ensure this growth translates into tangible benefits for ordinary Zimbabweans.
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