JOURNALISTS are pivotal in driving awareness of the impacts of mining operations, shining a light on how these companies affect the economy, environment, and local communities, according to the Environmental Social Governance (ESG) specialist.
Speaking at a media training workshop focused on responsible mining in Kadoma recently, David Mupamhadzi, an ESG specialist with the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA), highlighted the importance of journalists staying informed on both local and global mining trends.
This, he said, is key to holding mining companies accountable.
"Being knowledgeable with current trends calls for reading. Journalists cannot afford to be on the sidelines but must be well read and interact with key personnel in mining houses," he said during his presentation on reporting on responsible mining through global reporting initiative in the Zimbabwean context.
He also underscored the importance of building trust-based relationships between journalists and mining firms.
“Journalists should cultivate positive relationships with mining firms as through trust, companies will freely reveal information," Mupamhadzi said.
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"But journalists should not be seen as whistleblowers by companies, as that erodes trust. Similarly, that positive relationship should be nurtured with the communities where these companies operate."
Mupamhadzi added that a strong, cooperative relationship between the media, mining companies, and local communities could yield significant benefits.
For example, responsible media coverage could help mining companies access new markets by demonstrating their adherence to ethical standards, while communities would become more aware of their rights.
“Global firms now source products from companies that follow set standards, and through responsible reporting by the media, firms can secure contracts,” he noted.
Harare Polytechnic media lecturer Ishmael Tagurenyika highlighted the crucial role of the media in promoting sustainable mining through financial transparency.
"Media should focus on mining firms' financial reports, as they contain key details related to sustainability. By collaborating with the government, experts, and mining companies, the media can produce higher-quality, more impactful articles," Tagurenyika said.
He also stressed the need for journalists to detect potential tax evasion and embrace data-driven journalism to improve reporting standards.
Tagurenyika called for more capacity-building workshops for journalists and emphasized the importance of consistent reporting to measure impact and ensure mining firms remain accountable for sustainable practices.
Additionally, he urged journalists to familiarize themselves with mining laws and sector trends to stay informed and report effectively.
The training workshop, organised by ZELA, gathered journalists from various media houses with the goal of equipping them with the knowledge needed to report on responsible mining practices, such as environmental protection, community engagement, and health and safety standards.
The initiative also seeks to identify areas for future collaboration between the media and mining companies to promote responsible mining practices in Zimbabwe.