Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve in Hwange
VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Constantino Chiwenga has reaffirmed the Government’s continued commitment to deepen relations with China for strategic partnerships that foster sustainable and mutually beneficial investments.
He was speaking during a tour of the Zongjin Heli Energy Power Station, a Chinese investment on Wednesday, as part of his wider tour of strategic economic developments in Matabeleland North Province.
Following what he described as a successful tour of the plant, VP Chiwenga commended the Chinese company for its investment in Zimbabwe’s critical energy and mining value chains.
He, however, used the occasion to deliver a firm message on corporate social responsibility, directly addressing a local water dispute and setting out the Government’s non-negotiable expectations for all investors.
“I am pleased to address you following a successful tour of Zhongjin Heli Energy Power Station. The visit has provided valuable insights into the scale and scope of energy and industrial projects underway in Hwange,” he said.
“I commend the company for its investment in Zimbabwe’s energy and mining value chains.”
He then laid the philosophical groundwork for the bilateral relationship.
“As the Government, we hold in high esteem the China-Zimbabwe comprehensive strategic partnership of co-operation anchored on a shared future and win-win situation with a people-to-people relationship as one of its key pillars,” said VP Chiwenga.
“In essence, we should endeavour, at all times to advance mutually beneficial innovations that benefit and sustainably uplift communities from both Republics.”
VP Chiwenga grounded these principles in a pressing local issue, demonstrating the Government’s awareness of community grievances.
He referenced the dispute between Zhongjin Heli Energy and the Diki Village Community and Lukosi Irrigation Scheme, where the community is challenging the company’s alleged diversion of water from Kalope Dam.
“While this matter is still before the courts, it reflects a lack of stakeholder consultation and negates the principles of a people-to-people relationship,” he said.
VP Chiwenga proposed a practical solution, noting the company’s existing collaboration with Hwange Colliery Company on coal supply and urged them to extend that collaboration to the water supply from the Zambezi River, thereby alleviating pressure on local water sources.
He also declared that while Zimbabwe welcomes investors who contribute to economic growth, investment must be matched by full compliance with the laws of Zimbabwe.
“All operations must be conducted in a manner that respects our environmental regulations, safeguards community welfare and promotes long-term sustainability,” said the Vice-President.
He called upon Zhongjin Heli Energy to uphold the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and environmental stewardship, including proper safety protocols and ecological risk mitigation.
VP Chiwenga also emphasised that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is not optional but a duty for all investors.
He urged companies to give back to their host communities through infrastructure development, employment creation and support for health and education.
Specifically, the Vice-President tasked mining and energy firms with prioritising road and rail rehabilitation as part of their infrastructural contributions.
He expressed his desire for continued collaboration with Zhongjin Heli Energy to spur the nation’s great strides towards energy self-sufficiency.
The win-win partnership with strategic allies like China is predicated on tangible benefits and unwavering respect for the people and laws of Zimbabwe.
