Maputo, 22 Jun (AIM) – The Irish company Kenmare Resources, which has been mining the heavy mineral sands in Moma and Larde districts in the northern Mozambican province of Nampula, and the Civil Society Support Mechanism Foundation (MASC) have launched 500,000 US dollars plan aimed at strengthening social cohesion in mining areas.
Heavy mineral sands are used for production of titanium ores, such as Ilmenite, that are the raw materials used in paints, paper, and other products.
The plan, which will be implemented between 2026 and 2028, is aimed at strengthening mechanisms for community participation, improving dialogue between the local population and institutions, and supporting conflict resolution in areas affected by mining activity in the province of Nampula.
“This is a three-year programme that will be implemented in the regions of Larde and Moma and focuses on promoting social cohesion within these communities. The initiative involves establishing an integrated forum bringing together the government, civil society and the company to ensure greater community participation in local planning processes and in identifying development priorities”, said Maura Martins, MASC executive director.
According to Martins, the programme also includes community and institutional capacity-building initiatives, as well as mechanisms for conflict prevention, mitigation and resolution, in a region where mining continues to play a significant role in the local economy.
“Progress in the implementation of activities may give rise to additional funding requirements. The programme will be implemented primarily via local structures, including the identification of community mobilisation and the establishment of coordination mechanisms within the regions covered by the programme”, she said.
For his part, Gareth Clifton, Kenmare manager in Mozambique, said that his company aims to contribute to strengthening local institutions and promote more effective community participation in development processes.
“Strong communities are essential to the sustainability of investments and social stability in the areas where the mining company operates”, he said.
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