In Zimbabwe, a Conference on Dialogue and Mediation in Mining-Affected Areas

More than 30 participants from across Zimbabwe gathered in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 3-4 June 2026 for a Conference on Dialogue and Mediation in Mining-Affected Areas, aimed at promoting peace, environmental justice, and community resilience in mining communities.

Organized by the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) in collaboration with the Inter-Regional Meeting of the Bishops of Southern Africa (IMBISA) and the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the conference took place at Africa Synod House in Harare under the theme, “Promoting Peace, Environmental Justice, and Community Resilience.”

Ecological justice

The gathering brought together Church leaders, government representatives, civil society organizations, mining stakeholders, and community representatives to address the growing social, environmental, and economic challenges associated with mining activities. Participants highlighted concerns including land conflicts and displacement, environmental pollution, tensions between communities and mining companies, youth unemployment, and weak community consultation mechanisms.

Inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis, particularly the encyclical Laudato Si’, the conference emphasized dialogue, ecological justice, and the protection of vulnerable communities. A key feature of the event was a session dedicated to the voices of mining-affected communities, where women, youth, and local leaders shared firsthand experiences of the environmental and social impacts of extractive activities.

Balancing economic development with social justice

Other sessions examined legal and policy frameworks governing mining, including presentations by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association, and a multi-stakeholder dialogue panel on balancing economic development with social justice and environmental protection.

The second day focused on structured dialogue, mediation, and action planning through thematic roundtables. The conference concluded with the adoption of a communiqué containing recommendations and commitments aimed at strengthening community participation, environmental stewardship, accountability, and regional cooperation in mining governance.

Participants described the conference as a significant step toward ensuring that natural resources contribute to peace, human dignity, and sustainable development across the IMBISA region.

SECAM Communication Officer

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Download the Conference Communiqué here: Communique on Promoting Peace Environmental Justice and Community Resilience_Harare (Zimbabwe)