Mining journalists push for specialised training

SIFISO MAPURANGA

As Zimbabwe’s mining sector cements its position as a key pillar of economic growth, concerns are mounting over the lack of specialised training for journalists covering the industry.

With billions of dollars at stake and the sector’s complex technical, legal, and environmental dimensions, mining journalists are calling for urgent capacity building — but efforts risk being derailed by critical funding shortages.

Tafadzwa Dube, President of the Association of Mining Journalists in Zimbabwe (AMJZ), says there is an immediate need for media professionals to undergo formal training, particularly through institutions such as the Zimbabwe School of Mines. However, limited financial resources are hindering progress.

“We need our members to start training as soon as possible. There is a real and pressing need for journalists to understand how to write responsibly about mining,” Dube said. “The challenge we are facing right now is funding. Our journalists are ready, and the Zimbabwe School of Mines is ready to assist — but we need partners to come on board to make this training a reality.”

Dube stressed that without adequate training, journalists risk misrepresenting key developments in the sector — from exploration and licensing to environmental stewardship, community benefits, and mineral beneficiation.

“Mining is not just about minerals in the ground,” he explained. “It’s about livelihoods, policy, corporate responsibility, and national economic development. Our journalists need to understand this broader context if they are to inform the public accurately and hold the right people accountable.”

The call for support comes at a critical time for Zimbabwe’s mining industry. The sector, projected to generate US$12 billion in annual earnings, continues to attract significant local and international investment, particularly in gold, lithium, platinum, and coal. Yet as the sector expands, so too does the demand for a well-informed, technically competent media capable of providing accurate, insightful, and responsible coverage.

The AMJZ says it is actively engaging stakeholders to mobilise resources for the proposed training programme. The association believes the private sector, in particular, has a vested interest in supporting professional mining journalism.

“The partnership with the Zimbabwe School of Mines is key,” said Dube. “They have the technical knowledge, and we have the platform to translate that into impactful stories that inform, educate, and advocate. But without funding, this crucial training will remain a dream.”

Media development experts echo the association’s concerns. They argue that specialised knowledge among mining reporters would lead to more accurate coverage of critical issues — from community welfare and environmental risks to regulatory developments and revenue transparency.

“An empowered, well-trained press is essential to ensuring that Zimbabwe’s vast mineral wealth contributes to sustainable development, rather than fuelling misinformation, corruption, or unchecked corporate practices,” one media expert noted.

As Zimbabwe continues to leverage its mineral resources to drive economic transformation, mining journalists say they are eager to play their part — but insist that they cannot do so effectively without targeted support.

“We’re not asking for handouts — we’re asking for investment in professional journalism that protects the national interest,” Dube concluded.

With the right training and resources, Zimbabwe’s mining journalists could play a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development in one of the country’s most strategic industries.