The Zimbabwe Diamonds and Allied Workers' Union (ZIDAWU) has expressed concern over the management of $1.2 million in dividends allocated to the Chiadzwa Community Share Trust.

Wilson Waison

ZIDAWU chairman, Cosmas Sunguro, criticizes the absence of a legal framework to guide the use of these funds intended to benefit the Manicaland region.

“The trust has deprived people of knowing how the allocation will benefit everyone from Manicaland," Sunguro stated. "Unlike the previous Zimunya Marange Community Share Ownership Trust, there was proper documentation… this one is just anyone's business without telling people how the funds are supposed to be disbursed."

Sunguro calls for accountability: "The Chiadzwa Community Share Trust [must] make a public statement which highlights how the funds will be used. What’s worrying now is the coming in of politicians to devour the funds meant for public projects."

A local paper adds fuel to the concerns, accusing Zanu PF Mutare West legislator Nyasha Marange of demanding control of the funds and sparking infighting.

Mutare South Legislator Tawanda Dumbarimwe highlights the lack of transparency "I’m not aware that such an amount was given to the Trust... some projects which were underway... haven’t been completed since the age of time..."

Marange has confirmed the allocation, emphasizing that all three constituencies in the region will benefit. He dismisses criticism: "Yes, there is US$1.2 million… I know there are people who want to tarnish my image."

The Chiadzwa Community Share Trust, tasked with supporting communities affected by diamond mining, faces mounting scrutiny over its handling of significant dividends, prompting calls for greater transparency and community participation in decision-making processes.