Kamativi Lithium Mine Commits to Global Responsible Mining Audit

Kamativi Lithium Mine has committed to an independent audit under the global IRMA standard (image source)

KAMATIVI — Kamativi Mining Company (KMC) has taken a significant step toward transparency and ethical mineral extraction after committing to an independent audit of its lithium operations under the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) Standard, the world’s most comprehensive benchmark for responsible large-scale mining.

Owned by the Yahua Group, the Kamativi operation has signed formal agreements with IRMA and approved audit firm Resilience Environmental Assurance (REA), setting in motion a rigorous assessment of its environmental, social and governance practices. IRMA has confirmed the commencement of the audit through its public notification system, marking a notable milestone for Zimbabwe’s lithium sector as it aligns with global responsible-mining norms.

The move comes amid Zimbabwe’s broader push for ethical mineral extraction through the National Responsible Mining Audit Framework, a government-led initiative aimed at ensuring that rapid growth in lithium mining does not undermine environmental sustainability or community rights.

Kamativi will be assessed against more than 400 IRMA requirements, making it the only global responsible-mining standard developed through a multi-stakeholder process involving mining companies, mineral buyers, civil society groups, labour unions and affected communities. By voluntarily entering the IRMA system, KMC subjects itself to scrutiny that goes beyond conventional regulatory compliance, covering business integrity, worker safety, water stewardship, biodiversity protection and community engagement.

The audit will be conducted in two phases, beginning with a desk-based review followed by an on-site assessment. During the site visit, auditors will carry out confidential interviews with workers and community members without mine management present, ensuring independent and candid feedback. Company documentation will also be verified through direct observation and engagement with affected stakeholders.

The audit coincides with Kamativi’s rapid operational expansion. Phase II of the mine, constructed by China Railway No. 9 Group, recently became operational, increasing processing capacity to more than two million tonnes of lithium ore per year. Annual output is expected to reach close to 500,000 tonnes of lithium concentrate, positioning Zimbabwe as an emerging player in the global battery-minerals market.

As demand for ethically sourced minerals intensifies—particularly from electric-vehicle and technology manufacturers—the verification of responsible mining practices has become a key requirement for international buyers.

Stakeholders, including workers, residents and community organisations, have been invited to submit comments or request interviews with the audit team. Following the site visit, auditors will prepare a draft report for review by both IRMA and KMC. The company will then have up to 12 months to implement corrective actions before the final report is published.

KMC’s decision to undergo an IRMA audit signals a strong commitment to ethical supply chains at a time when global scrutiny of mineral sourcing is increasing. By voluntarily inviting independent oversight, the company positions itself as a potential benchmark for responsible mining in Zimbabwe’s extractive sector.

The move also strengthens Kamativi’s social licence in Hwange District, empowering communities and workers to engage openly on the mine’s impacts. As Zimbabwe’s lithium industry expands, Kamativi’s participation in the IRMA system may set a new standard for transparency, accountability and community-centred development.