As the world accelerates its transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, many celebrate this shift as a necessary step to address climate change. But for resource-rich countries, particularly in the Global South – the renewable transition is not only uneven; it’s unjust.  

In Zimbabwe, large-scale renewable energy and mineral extraction projects are being fast-tracked to meet global climate goals. Lithium, a key component in the batteries needed for this energy transition, has become a critical raw material driving this rush. With Zimbabwe holding the largest lithium deposits in Africa, global demand has spiked, triggering land dispossession and resource exploitation. New research by WILPF Zimbabwe,  “Leveraging the Women, Peace and Security Agenda National Action Plan to Safeguard Peace and Security in Host Communities Amidst the Renewable Energy Transition: A Human Security Perspective”, reveals that these efforts often come at a significant cost to local communities: environmental degradation, social inequality and the marginalisation of women. 

How have large-scale renewable energy projects in Zimbabwe led to land dispossession and displacement?

Large-scale mining projects for critical minerals needed for renewable energy, have often resulted in land dispossession and displacement of local communities. Zimbabwe has the world’s fifth-largest reserves of lithium – which is an essential component of the rechargeable batteries used in things like mobile phones and electric vehicles. These projects typically require large expanses land, which may encroach upon areas traditionally used for farming, grazing or settlement.  

Many affected communities have not been adequately compensated or resettled, leading to the loss of both livelihoods and homes. These projects often prioritise economic and energy goals over the rights and needs of local populations. For example, 41 families in Buhera were displaced from their homes to make way for Zimbabwe’s third largest lithium mine owned by China’s Sabi Star mining company.

What role do international investors and corporations play in perpetuating environmental injustices in the name of clean energy?

“International investors and corporations play a significant role in perpetuating environmental injustices in the renewable energy sector by prioritising profit over the well-being of local communities.” 

Through large-scale renewable energy projects, these actors exploit natural resources and land in developing countries like Zimbabwe. While such projects are often marketed as “clean energy,” they can lead to displacement, environmental degradation and social disruption. In many cases, international corporations’ pressure local governments to bypass environmental regulations or overlook the needs of marginalised populations in favour of meeting global energy demands. 

In what ways does the renewable energy transition mirror colonial-era resource extraction? 

The renewable energy transition, in some ways, mirrors colonial-era resource extraction because due to the exploitation of local resources and labour for the benefit of foreign corporations and governments. Much like colonial-era mineral extraction, today’s renewable energy projects—such as large lithium extractions– displace local populations and disrupt traditional ways of life.  

Indigenous and marginalised communities often bear the brunt of these projects, receiving few benefits, while foreign investors and governments gain substantial economic returns. Workers and villagers at the Bikita Lithium mine have accused the government and the Chinese mining firm for sidelining both environmental and community concerns in favour of mining operations.

How do marginalised communities, particularly women, experience the negative impacts of large-scale renewable projects? 

Displaced women, in particular, face increased economic insecurity due to the loss of agricultural land. Polluted water sources, contaminated by toxic chemicals, further compound their struggles, especially for those reliant on fishing for their livelihoods. Moreover, women are often excluded from decision-making processes related to these projects, exacerbating their vulnerability to social and economic disadvantages. 

What are the environmental and social consequences of renewable projects, such as hydropower and solar farms, on local populations? 

The environmental and social consequences of renewable energy projects, like lithium extraction, are severe for local populations. Communities are being displaced, and there are alarming levels of environmental degradation. The construction of mining infrastructure has negatively affected fisheries, agriculture, and local water supplies, which many communities depend on for their livelihoods. These extractive projects also require vast amounts of land, leading to habitat destruction, particularly in biodiversity-rich areas. Additionally, mining projects exacerbate existing social inequalities, as local communities are often not adequately consulted or compensated for the damage caused. 

How do affected communities resist and what policy changes are needed to prevent renewable energy transition from reproducing historical injustices? 

Communities affected by exploitative renewable energy projects resist in various ways—through legal challenges, protests, and advocating for their rights on local and international platforms. They raise awareness, pressure governments, and collaborate with NGOs to demand greater accountability from corporations and investors. But this resistance alone isn’t enough. To prevent the renewable energy transition from repeating the historical injustices of resource extraction, bold policy changes are necessary: 

• Inclusive decision-making: Ensure marginalised communities, especially women and indigenous groups, are involved in planning. 
• Land rights protection: Guarantee fair compensation for displaced communities. 
• Stronger safeguards: Enforce regulations to protect both people and the environment. 
• Benefit sharing: Ensure affected communities benefit from renewable projects. 
• Corporate accountability: Hold corporations accountable for their social and environmental impact.