Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana and Rutendo Nyeve, Zimpapers Reporters
THE rehabilitation of the Cross Dete–Kamativi Road, a key economic corridor linking the fast-growing lithium mining town of Kamativi to surrounding rural communities and regional markets, is set to unlock fresh economic activity across parts of Matabeleland North Province.
The road is a vital transport artery supporting mining operations, local commerce, access to healthcare and movement between Kamativi, Cross Dete, Binga and neighbouring districts.
Over the years, its deteriorating condition had made travel risky and costly, with some sections becoming nearly impassable.
In a major boost to mobility and development, Kamativi Mining Company (KMC), in partnership with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, has embarked on the rehabilitation of the roughly 30-kilometre stretch under the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
Matabeleland North Provincial Roads Engineer, Mr Xolani Ncube, confirmed the development and commended the company’s proactive involvement.
“Kamativi Mining Company partnered with us and did 3,5km around the Kamativi Escarpment. The company timeously assists us in routine maintenance of the Kamativi-Binga road in the range of 20km,” said Eng Ncube.
KMC head of corporate social responsibility, Mr Mehluli Moyo, said the intervention forms part of KMC’s broader commitment to community development and responsible business practices.
“As part of our CSR initiative, we partnered with the Department of Roads to help rehabilitate the Cross Dete-Kamativi stretch to improve connectivity and make the road more trafficable. The road was once in a deplorable state, hence our commitment to chip in with essential resources,” he said.
Works currently underway include pothole patching, drainage repairs, closing of gullies, and widening of the road in selected sections to improve safety and ease of movement. The rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency for mining activities while also benefitting surrounding communities that rely on the corridor for trade and access to essential services.
For residents, the impact is already being felt. Ward 11 councillor, Joshua Tshuma welcomed the development, saying the rehabilitation was both timely and transformative for local mobility and service access.
“Now, transport and movement will be positive, especially when referring patients for further management. The road had bad potholes, falling rocks and landslides, and both public and private vehicles were avoiding it,” he said.
Accessible and reliable road infrastructure remains a cornerstone of economic stimulation in areas such as Kamativi and Binga, where mining, agriculture, and small-scale trading depend on efficient transport networks. Improved roads reduce the cost of doing business, encourage investment, create jobs during construction and improve access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.
The Cross Dete-Kamativi rehabilitation also aligns with broader Governmental efforts to improve the country’s road network.
KMC’s involvement in road projects is just one part of its extensive CSR footprint in the Kamativi area. Since its reopening of the mine, the company has invested significantly towards community development, significantly boosting local social and economic infrastructure.
Among its initiatives, the company drilled boreholes and equipped then with solar pump systems to provide clean water and support community and school needs. It also provided education support through repairs and construction of classrooms and blocks at local schools, donations of school supplies and scholarships for students.
Under its healthcare and welfare pillar, KMC donated medical supplies, transportation support for clinics, and mealie-meal to drought-affected households. It embarked on a refurbishment of the Kamativi Community Auditorium and construction of sports facilities such as a football field for Kamativi Secondary School.
In addition, it provided infrastructure support for electricity resuscitation and water supply projects beyond road works.
The company’s CSR efforts have also earned external recognition. Last year, the mining company won a Community Empowerment and Social Impact Award for its contributions to livelihoods, education, health, and local enterprise support-underlining its commitment to sustainable development and responsible mining.
Once a ghost town following the closure of the Kamativi tin mine in 1994, the reopening and transformation into a lithium production hub has changed the economic landscape. KMC’s initiatives have created more than 300 direct jobs and over 1 000 indirect jobs through contractors, supporting local income and reducing socio-economic challenges such as youth unemployment.
“Our corporate social responsibility initiative transcends mere programming. It embodies a steadfast commitment to enduring, positive transformation within the communities we serve,” said Mr Moyo.
“Responsible business practices go beyond profitability; they are about leaving a meaningful impact on people’s lives and the environment.”
