HARARE – Acting President Constantino Chiwenga has sent a powerful message from Bulawayo, signalling his growing impatience with the deep-seated corruption and cronyism that have plagued Zimbabwe’s mining sector under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
Speaking at the official opening of Mine Entra 2025, Chiwenga reaffirmed a strong stance against corruption, illicit mineral trading, and resource leakages — remarks widely interpreted as a veiled rebuke of Mnangagwa’s inner circle, long accused of looting national wealth through politically protected cartels.
“There is a strong stance against corruption, illicit trading, and leakages, with government implementing licensing transparency, regular audits, community engagement, and whistleblower protection,” Chiwenga declared, drawing applause from delegates.
His words have been read by many as a bold statement of intent — a quiet revolt against the patronage system that has turned Zimbabwe’s mineral riches into private fortunes for a few politically connected elites.
While Mnangagwa’s administration has been criticised for shielding his allies from prosecution despite overwhelming evidence of graft, Chiwenga’s speech projected an image of accountability and renewal. Insiders say his focus on transparency and community benefit directly contrasts with Mnangagwa’s opaque deals and foreign partnerships that have largely excluded local communities.
Chiwenga described Mine Entra as a platform for reimagining Zimbabwe’s mining future, urging both public and private sectors to embrace ethical leadership and sustainable growth. He emphasised that true progress will only come when citizens, not cartels, are the primary beneficiaries of the nation’s mineral wealth.
The Acting President also highlighted the importance of the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, saying it must serve people — not political patrons. “Mining must build schools, clinics, and roads in the communities that bear the brunt of extraction,” he said, in what many saw as a jab at Mnangagwa’s allies accused of plundering without reinvestment.
Observers note that Chiwenga’s rhetoric has increasingly diverged from Mnangagwa’s “open for business” mantra, which critics argue opened the door for exploitation by foreign firms and local cronies.
“Chiwenga is distinguishing himself as the one leader willing to confront the rot eating away at Zimbabwe’s economy,” said a Bulawayo-based analyst. “He’s speaking the language of reform and fairness, while others defend corruption under the pretext of investment.”
Chiwenga’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and community empowerment reflects a shift towards a more people-centred mining agenda — one that could redefine the power dynamics within the ruling establishment.
As the battle for political legitimacy intensifies ahead of the next electoral cycle, Chiwenga’s latest remarks appear to position him as the face of integrity and renewal within a government crippled by Mnangagwa’s
