This policy briefing synthesises findings from two phases of research conducted by Good Governance Africa (GGA) and the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) in 2022 and 2025. Phase 1 assessed initial community consultation processes and environmental impacts. Phase 2 established community resource governance priorities, focusing on the Just Energy Transition, household energy use, responsible mining practices, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations.
The research reveals important gaps between current practice and community needs in areas of engagement, infrastructure, and environmental protection. These gaps are not insurmountable, but they require deliberate attention now – during this transitional period – to establish governance frameworks that can guide any eventual extraction toward inclusive outcomes. The findings reflect broader patterns in Zimbabwe’s extractive sector where natural resource wealth has historically not translated into community development gains, a pattern that can be reversed through intentional policy choices.
