Mberengwa Residents Urge Parliament to Translate Mines and Minerals Bill into Local Languages

A lithium mine in Mberengwa (image source)

In a bid to enhance community participation and understanding, residents of Mberengwa District in Zimbabwe's Midlands Province have called on Parliament to translate the newly gazetted Mines and Minerals Bill into local languages. The initiative aims to empower communities to engage meaningfully in public hearings and address challenges arising from mining activities in their areas. During a district environmental impact assessment dialogue organized by Silveira House, community leaders emphasized the importance of linguistic accessibility in legal matters. Ward 10 Councillor Devilious Mashavakure highlighted that the use of English legal jargon often alienates local populations, making it difficult for them to comprehend and participate in legislative processes. He stated, “Parliament must strive to overcome the language barriers in communities hardest hit by mining activities. The English jargon used in law is often confusing; hence, the urgent need to roll it out in local languages.”

Councillor Mashavakure also acknowledged the role of community-based publications in raising awareness among Mberengwa residents about the Bill and its potential impact on their lives.

The Mines and Minerals Bill, gazetted in June 2025 under General Notice 1243A, seeks to replace the colonial-era Mines and Minerals Act of 1961. The outdated legislation has been criticized for its failure to address modern mining challenges and for perpetuating historical injustices, including inadequate compensation for displaced communities and environmental degradation.

Councillor Lovemore Nkomo of Ward 16 expressed optimism about the Bill's provisions, which he believes have the potential to rectify past wrongs and promote sustainable mining practices. He emphasized the need for the Bill to be disseminated in local languages well ahead of public hearings to ensure informed participation. Mberengwa is home to diverse linguistic communities, including speakers of Karanga, Ndebele, and Shona. The Karanga language, in particular, is prevalent in the district and is distinct from Standard Shona, which is often used in official documents. This linguistic divide can create barriers to understanding and engagement, particularly among older generations and those with limited literacy in English.

Experts argue that translating legal documents into local languages is crucial for ensuring that all community members can participate in democratic processes. Dr. Tendai Nyamadzawo, a specialist in community development, noted, “Language is a powerful tool for inclusion. When people understand the laws that govern them, they are better equipped to advocate for their rights and hold authorities accountable.”

As Parliament prepares for public hearings on the Mines and Minerals Bill, the call from Mberengwa residents underscores the need for inclusive legislative processes that consider the linguistic and cultural diversity of Zimbabwe's communities. By translating the Bill into local languages, Parliament can foster greater civic engagement and ensure that the voices of all citizens are heard and considered in shaping the nation's mining policies.