Community Engagement
Partnering for
Shared Growth
and Lasting Impact
We believe our success is linked to the well-being and prosperity of the communities surrounding our operations. We embrace a proactive, respectful approach to community engagement, creating sustainable benefits, addressing local needs and building strong, trusting relationships founded on open dialogue, mutual respect and a shared vision for a prospering future.
Foundations of Our Community Partnerships
Our dedicated community department works continuously to build and maintain trust with neighbouring communities throughout the project lifecycle.
Key aspects of our engagement include:
Regular Meetings and Open Forums
Providing updates on the project and inviting open discussion, ensuring community needs, concerns and aspirations are heard.
Transparent Grievance Mechanism
Offering a clear and accessible process for community members to raise concerns and receive timely, respectful responses.
Cultural Sensitivity
Operating with respect for cultural heritage, established social structures and the inherent rights of all community members.
Supporting Affected Households
We acknowledge that some households may be affected by the project’s footprint. In such cases, relocation is carried out with fairness, transparency and deep respect for human rights.
Our Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) are designed to:
- Ensure fair compensation for any affected assets or livelihoods.
- Provide support in finding new homes and suitable agricultural land where applicable.
- Implement livelihood restoration programmes to enable sustained economic well-being post-relocation.
These plans comply with both Zimbabwean regulations and IFC Performance Standards, reflecting our commitment to ethical resettlement practices.
Programs for
Sustainable Development
Even during the construction phase, Karo actively supports community development initiatives in the project’s immediate vicinity.
Recent and ongoing projects include:
- Chirundazi School (Q2 2024): Installation of a 16 kW solar system and upgrade of the water distribution system, valued at US$40,000.
- Katawa School (2024): Development and installation of a complete water system, replacing reliance on a borehole 800 metres away. The new system includes a solar pump, reservoir, and distribution network with five service points, supplying both the school and its field & orchard.
- Katawa School (2025): With support from Masimba Holdings, construction of a new classroom block to replace a building damaged during a storm.
We work to enlist the support of our key contractors in contributing to community projects.