4 June 2025

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) applauds the Government of Zimbabwe for its renewed commitment to operationalise and strengthen Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs).

This initiative is needed critically, as many trusts have lacked legal recognition and effective governance since the 2018 amendment of the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act and subsequent delays in enacting the new Economic Empowerment Act.

ZELA, therefore, welcomes Cabinet’s recent approval of proposals to revive CSOTs through a robust policy and regulatory framework. This marks a significant step toward ensuring equitable community benefits from natural resource exploitation in mining areas.

Despite historical challenges—including poor governance, transparency gaps, and underfunding—CSOTs have demonstrated tangible success in communities such as Gwanda, Zvishavane, and Mutare. These trusts have delivered improved infrastructure, social services, and community-driven development.

ZELA strongly supports the government’s pledge to:

• Conduct comprehensive audits of existing CSOTs.
• Provide corporate rescue mechanisms for struggling trusts.
• Harmonize trust deeds and sustainable funding models.
• Align CSOTs with national development priorities (NDS1, NDS2, and the Devolution Agenda).

We further urge the government to ensure the forthcoming Economic Empowerment Act incorporates robust legal safeguards for community interests, meaningful community participation mechanisms, and stringent environmental accountability measures.

ZELA remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to advance transparent, equitable, and sustainable management of Zimbabwe’s natural resources.