Implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility and Productivity of Platinum Mines in Hurungwe, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This article is based on research whose purpose was to evaluate how corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in platinum mines in the Hurungwe District of Karoi affected their output. Ten mines in the district were chosen for this qualitative research. To collect this information, an interview guide was used. The interviews were administered to 10 ownermanagers in Hurungwe. However, nine interviews were successfully administered, constituting 90%of the response rate. Results were processed and presented thematically. The study found that CSR was associated with increased output at district gold mines. As argued by the study's findings, gold miners can boost their relationships with customers, the community and the environment by adopting a CSR strategy. The research found that gold miners in the Hurungwe District regard CSR as primarily charitable, rather than a strategic direction that benefits both communities and enterprises. CSR's impact on mining sustainability in Mashonaland West Province requires longitudinal research. This research recommends that the government, through the Mines and Minerals Act (Chapter 21:05) of 1961 number 38)] or the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act (Chapter 14:3) of 2008 number 14, should include a provision requiring any mining firm operating in Zimbabwe to support local communities through CSR.