A big lithium mine could be beneficial to surrounding communities. In the Zimbabwean district of Goromonzi, however, locals are not satisfied. The mine has not created many jobs, nor has it contributed to development of infrastructure or other services.

“There is no value addition from the mineral extraction”, local resident Masimba Manyanya says.

The case of Goromonzi is not unique, according to NAI researcher Grasian Mkodzongi. Several of his informants from other mining areas say the same thing.

“In general, people feel that mining does not benefit local communities. They are complaining against a lack of investment by mining companies”, Mkodzongi says.