By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru, Princess of Harare
HARARE, Zimbabwe – In a significant victory for environmental protection and community rights, Bryden College, a prominent educational institution in Kadoma, has won a landmark case against Shuntai Investments (Private) Limited, a Chinese mining company. The High Court of Zimbabwe, under Justice Dembure, issued a provisional order on March 25, 2025, halting the mining operations of Shuntai Investments at Plot Number 8 Eastbourne, Chegutu.
The case, bearing the reference number HCH1326/25, saw Bryden Country School Trust, representing the college, take legal action against the mining company for commencing operations without the necessary environmental and administrative approvals. The college argued that the mining activities posed a significant threat to the environment and the well-being of the students and the surrounding community.
The Provisional Order states:
Cessation of Operations: Shuntai Investments has been ordered to immediately cease all mining activities at the site until they obtain the requisite environmental and social impact assessment certificate and other necessary administrative authorizations.
Transparency and Accountability: The Environmental Management Agency (EMA), cited as the second respondent in the case, has been directed to provide Bryden College with a comprehensive report and all relevant documents pertaining to the Lime and Cement Factory project within ten days.
Cost Award: Shuntai Investments is to bear the legal costs of the case.
The High Court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and respecting community rights in development projects. The provisional order serves as a stern warning to companies operating in Zimbabwe that disregard for the law and the environment will not be tolerated.
Community Impact and Reaction:
The ruling has been hailed as a major victory by the Bryden College community and environmental activists. Residents of Kadoma have expressed relief and gratitude for the court’s intervention, citing concerns over pollution, noise, and potential health hazards associated with the mining activities.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps:
Shuntai Investments has ten days to file a Notice of Opposition if they intend to contest the confirmation of the provisional order. Failure to do so will result in the matter being set down for a hearing without further notice, and the provisional order may be confirmed as a final order.
The case highlights the growing awareness and activism surrounding environmental protection in Zimbabwe and the willingness of communities to take legal action to safeguard their interests.
Attached Document:
The attached document, a copy of the High Court’s provisional order, provides further details on the ruling and the terms set out by the court.
Note: This article is based on the information provided in the attached document and may not reflect the full context of the case. Further updates will be provided as the legal proceedings unfold.
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