Hillary Mugota

The day of the African Child is rooted in scholarship, and we celebrated the day on 16 June with school environmental club members in Gwanda. The 2026 theme was: “Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation, and hygiene for every child in Africa.” ZELO is committed to advancing the realization, promotion and protection of Environmental Child Rights within the natural resources sector. In partnership and with support from Terre des Hommes Germany, we are implementing a project that advances a multistakeholder approach to ensure that environmental child rights are recognised and promoted within the natural resources sector. This year’s theme aligns with our focus on Environmental Child Rights as it draws attention to the challenges faced by children, particularly girls, in rural areas and informal settlements, where lack of access to clean water and hygienic facilities can hinder school attendance and personal development. More insights on the day in the thread below👇 @HillaryMugota

Benefit-sharing is the new benchmark in Carbon Markets. Across 5 countries - Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe - community rights and transparent benefit-sharing have moved from "nice-to-have" to legal requirements, a major shift toward climate justice. A recently published comparative analysis by @ShamisoMtisi and Dr. @chantelle_moyo reveals how 5 African nations are shaping high-integrity carbon markets. Download: zela.org/download/a-comparat… Also in the report: ➡️Following the troubled Kariba REDD+ project, Zimbabwe's new regulations require 20% minimum community investment, establish blockchain-based registry transparency, and domesticate the UN's Sustainable Development Tool. ➡️With its 2023 Climate Change Amendment Act, Kenya now mandates 40% of carbon revenues from land-based projects go directly to local communities. Community Development Agreements are legally required. ➡️Zambia's Forest Carbon Stock Management Regulations require public inspection of project documents, including baseline calculations and additionality proofs. Only genuinely commercially sensitive information can be withheld, a model for balancing investor confidentiality with community accountability. ➡️The African Union's Biodiversity Strategy (2023-2030) and the First Africa Biodiversity Summit (Botswana, 2025) signal growing interest in payment for ecosystem services (PES) and biodiversity offsets. The report notes these could become the next frontier alongside carbon markets, but warns that legal frameworks must catch up. @theGCF @AfClimateSummit @climatenewsrom @FordFoundation @SwedeninZW @UNEP @UNFCCC @Obertbore

🚨 ZELO's first Quarterly Bulletin is out! Download the full edition which tracks developments in environmental law, climate governance, and natural resource regulation affecting Zimbabwe and the region: bit.ly/48UB8TB Key highlights include: ⚖️ Zimbabwe High Court Ruling: Mining certificates without EIA are INVALID. 🚫 Raw mineral & lithium export ban in 🇿🇼confirms gaps from our Mine to Market report (2025). 🌍 African Commission Resolution 657 affirms that access to climate/environmental info is part of the right to healthy environment under the African Charter. Also inside: 🔹 Zimbabwe's first mini-grid policy 🔹 Climate Change Management Bill (awaiting 2nd reading) 🔹 US exit from Paris Agreement 🔹 National Biodiversity Strategy 2026–2030

We are excited to share highlights of ZELO’s participation in the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba and Alternative Mining Indaba! From engaging with over 30 Ministers from Africa, to networking with thousands of investors and executives - including over 1,500 investors, 1,700 mining executives, 700 industry experts, civil society and development partners - we used these platforms to champion responsible and sustainable mining practices. For a recap of our engagements, check out our Mining Indaba Newsletter (Special Edition). Download your copy here: zela.org/download/mining-ind… @AltMiningIndaba @MiningIndaba @MinistryMines @ShamisoMtisi @SwedeninZW @Obertbore @macjoshy @BMutasa @TIZim_info @zidainvest @ParliamentZim @EMAeep @EU_Commission @ACTAlliance @ZIMCODD1 @zccinzim @CNRG_ZIM @263Chat @CanEmbZimbabwe

From the classroom to the community , this week our environmental law clinic takes us to Bikita. Together with law students from the @GreatZimUni Herbert Chitepo Law School, we are engaging communities affected by mining to better understand environmental and social challenges on the ground. Read more on our blog: zela.org/environmental-law-i… @NorChurchAid @SwedeninZW @HillaryMugota @ShamisoMtisi @jnyamukunda @BMutasa

Celebrating World Wildlife Day 2026! This year, #WWD2026 is commemorated under the theme: Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods. ZELO celebrates this occasion by acknowledging the unique and often underappreciated contributions of plants to both people and the planet. Flora and fauna, though facing risks similar to those of animal species, rarely receive the same level of public attention and protection. Today we call for the implementation of measures that position biodiversity as a driver of inclusive growth, ecological sustainability and development. Read our statement here 👉zela.org/zelo-statement-on-w…

It's Exhibition Day at the Alternative Mining Indaba 2026!! Visit the ZELO stand were we are sharing powerful stories from the communities who host mining operations. Our team will also give insights into two recent research reports that advance sustainable and responsible mineral resource management. Find out more about the research in the thread below👇👇👇 @AltMiningIndaba @ShamisoMtisi @Obertbore @BMutasa @iamkudadube @HillaryMugota @macjoshy @SwedeninZW @NorChurchAid @CentreEnvRights @CNRG_ZIM @zccinzim @ZIMCODD1 @ActionAidZim

Today marks the official opening of the Alternative Mining Indaba #AMI2026 , and we are proud to be part of this critical space running under the theme “Alternative Stories of Mining.” This year, we are not just participating , we are exhibiting. One of our key exhibitions is our Mine to Market Research, which explores the full journey of minerals from extraction to the global market, and what this really means for communities, workers, and the environment. As ZELO, we believe alternative stories matter , stories that center people, sustainability, and equitable development. We look forward to engaging stakeholders, sharing evidence-based insights, and contributing to a future where mining supports both livelihoods and environmental protection. @AltMiningIndaba @MiningIndaba @AfricanAmdc @euinzim @FordFoundation @BMutasa @ShamisoMtisi @Obertbore @NorChurchAid @SwedeninZW @jnyamukunda @HillaryMugota @macjoshy

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organisation is honoured to be partnering with the African Minerals Development Centre to hold two Industry Intel Sessions at the African Mining Indaba 2026. 🗓️ Tuesday, 10 February 2026 ▶️Session 1 (13:00): Revamping the AMV Private Sector Compact. Focusing on Human Rights, Social License, and Energy Democracy. ▶️Session 2 (14:45): Dovetailing Minerals & the Africa Green Minerals Strategy. Unlocking finance & aligning with global climate goals. Through these sessions, Africa is shifting the narrative from raw mineral extraction to local value, jobs, and a just energy transition. A huge thank you to the partners driving these efforts to revamp mining in Africa including @AfricanAmdc, @AcepPower, @AFPHAfrica, @NEPAD_Agency, @OxfamSA @Oxfam , @Global_Witness, @Enzi_Ijayo, @TaxJusticeAfric, #UNECA, @Southern_Tr, Danish Institute for Human Rights, & more. #GreenMinerals

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organisation (ZELO) invites eligible suppliers and service providers to apply for registration for the year 2026. Successful applicants will be included in ZELO’s supplier database under the categories listed below. 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐀 1. Construction 2. Office cleaning and disinfection (including grounds maintenance) 3. Network solutions (including laptop repairs, printer repairs, and software upgrades) 4. ICT Hardware (laptop, printers, routers, etc.) 5. Corporate wear, protective clothing, and IEC materials 6. Accommodation and conference services 7. Vehicle hire, shuttle services, and transportation 8. Travel agents (air ticketing) 9. Vehicle service and repairs 10. Health and wellness, medical aid, funeral cover 11. Consultancy services 12. Suppliers of building materials 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐁 1. Office maintenance and repairs 2. Plumbing repairs 3. Locksmith Services 4. Electrical repairs (including solar repairs and installations) 5. Office furniture and equipment 6. Air conditioning services 7. Sanitary disposal services 8. Audio-visual equipment 9. Translation services 10. Generator services and support 11. Website development 12. Telecommunications services 13. Stationery 𝐑𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐒𝐔𝐁𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 / 𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐘 1. A detailed company profile 2. Copy of CR14 (clearly showing directorship) 3. Copy of Certificate of Incorporation 4. Copy of valid tax clearance 5. Copy of VAT registration certificate 6. Valid banking details, including a bank statement for at least three (3) months 7. Physical and postal address 8. A minimum of three (3) traceable references 9. Proof of payments for supplier registration should be attached  (NB: clearly write your company name as payment reference) 10. A non-refundable registration fee of USD 100.00 for Category A 11. A non-refundable registration fee of USD 50.00 for Category B 12. If you wish to apply for more than one category, kindly process payments for all categories being applied for. 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒 Account Name: Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organization Account Number: 21573160223 Branch: FCDA Centre Branch Code: 2157 Bank Name: First Capital Bank NB: All applications must be submitted via email to [email protected], clearly indicating the category being applied for in the subject line. The closing date for submission is 26 February 2026 at 16:30 hours. Late submissions will not be considered. 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐍𝐋𝐘 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐎𝐄𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐔𝐓𝐄 𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐏𝐔𝐑𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐎𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌 𝐎𝐅 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐋 𝐎𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍.

Today is the second and final day of the Environmental Law Conference! Interesting discussions on the programme are in progress, starting with a recap of day 1 proceedings led by @IvyChimedza. This was followed by the first presentation of the day by @IUCN Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist @kambiliChilufya. The important question his presentation posed was how to translate the progressive constitutional and international norms on Environmental Justice into tangible actions for communities on the ground? One key takeaway from his presentation was the use of Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) to uphold social justice. This can be done through four broad thematic risk areas: ➡️ Law Enforcement Operations ➡️ Access Restriction ➡️ Human wildlife Conflict/Co-existence ➡️ Physical Infrastructure Development Exciting conversations on environmental law indeed. Follow for updates... @ShamisoMtisi @macjoshy @HazelChimbiro @Obertbore @SwedeninZW @aielinstitute @EMAeep @MOECW_ZIMBABWE @zidainvest @ZiFMStereoNews @ActionAidZim @mukasiri @PoliceZimbabwe @ParliamentZim @HillaryMugota @forestrycom1 @Zimparks @CAID_Zimbabwe @ManeleMpofu @UNEP @UKaid @UKinZimbabwe

The inaugural 🇿🇼 Environmental Law Conference is currently underway. Participants are examining the role of environmental law in confronting the interconnected "triple planetary crisis" of climate change, nature (biodiversity) loss, and pollution and waste. Co-hosted by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organisation, Environmental Management Agency and Africa Institute of Environmental Law , the conference convenes a diverse group of experts to discuss the state of environmental law and its role in achieving sustainability and the realization of environmental rights. Follow the opening session here: facebook.com/zifmstereo/vide… @aielinstitute @EMAeep @ZiFMStereo @ohchr_sa @UNHumanRights @SwedeninZW @MOECW_ZIMBABWE @UNEP @UNEP_Africa @sadcpf @ParliamentZim @FordFoundation @Zimparks @forestrycom1 @zidainvest @ShamisoMtisi @mukasiri @BMutasa @Obertbore @euinzim

Last time, we discussed the Green Climate Fund @theGCF as the world's largest fund dedicated to helping developing countries combat climate change. The GCF recognises, however, that its projects can sometimes have unintended negative consequences for individuals and communities. To address this, the fund established an Independent Redress Mechanism (IRM) to provide recourse for those affected, or potentially affected, by GCF-funded projects. The IRM performs five key functions: 👉Addresses complaints by people who believe they are negatively affected by GCF projects and aims to provide them with fair, effective and transparent recourse. 👉Works with GCF Direct Access Entities to help them build capacity related to grievance mechanisms and procedures. 👉Seeks to increase awareness about its work and share lessons about its experiences with other stakeholders as well as the general public. 👉Based on lessons learned from its cases and best international practices, provides systemic advice to the GCF on policies and procedures with an eye to improving GCF performance and outcomes. 👉Manages requests for reconsideration from developing countries concerning board decisions that have resulted in the denial of funding for a project or programme. For more detailed information, please read the attached factsheet.

Let's clear the air on climate change. Forget the confusion. Our quick factsheet gives you the clear, simple breakdown you need to understand this global crisis and global efforts to avoid the worst climate impacts and maintain a liveable climate. Read and share it now 👇 @theGCF @HillaryMugota @iamkudadube @Obertbore @BMutasa @ShamisoMtisi @UNFCCC @Momentum_UNFCCC @CAID_Zimbabwe @ActionAidZim @ClimateZimDept

As we wrap up, our legal officer @HillaryMugota unpacked the Mines & Minerals Bill for youth. She urged young people to set priorities, seize opportunities in small-scale mining & embrace environmental + social responsibility. Her call: How will YOU shape the mining sector? Will you be the right voice? #Youths4Environment #ZAMI2025

Happening today in Bulawayo! In partnership with @zccinzim and @ActionAidZim , we hosting the 2025 Youth Symposium under the theme ‘Empowering Youth for a Just & Sustainable Mining Future.’ 🌍✨ The symposium aims to: ✅ Enhance youth agency in the just energy transition. ✅ Bridge opportunity gaps with skills, jobs & entrepreneurship. ✅ Provide a platform for youth to engage on the Mines & Minerals Bill & advocate for sustainability, inclusion & community benefits. Follow along for live moments! #ZAMI2025 #YouthVoices #JustEnergyTransition”**

Remember the presentation from @IyasaZw last year? In 11 days we convene again with more advocacy through art at #ZAMI2025 Theme: From extraction to sustainable development: Unlocking Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth for inclusive growth in the just energy transition. @ZIMCODD1 @zccinzim

@ZELA_Infor in partnership with @caritaszambia are proud to host a 3-day @tdh_saco Annual Partner Meeting running under the theme Advancing Children’s Rights Through Collective Action! The meeting aims to strengthen regional collaboration, enhance programmatic alignment, drive learning, and advance TDH’s strategic goals. Expectations are high — forging a shared vision, amplifying youth participation, sparking innovation & adaptation, and influencing policy to create lasting impact for children everywhere. Stay tuned for more updates! . . #childrights @Sithandweyink12 @HillaryMugota @macjoshy @zzidawu @fadzyMislee @ShamisoMtisi

📍Mudzi District | This week, in partnership with @SaveChildrenZW, we were training duty bearers & law enforcement agencies on 👧🏽🧒🏿 child rights, legal responsibilities & child-friendly services to tackle child labour & trafficking. This is part of our “Fighting Against Child Labour & Child Trafficking in Zimbabwe” project which is embedding responsible business conduct in sectors like mining & agriculture. 🌍💪 #ChildRightsMatter #StopChildTrafficking

✅ Done! This week, we completed the in-person Green Policy Training with the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA) @bvtatrust , supported by @hivosrosa! Proud to present our Climate & Environmental Governance policy toolkit 🛠️—equipping youth in Bulawayo to champion sustainable urban food systems & resilient city policies! Next step: Online backstopping sessions coming soon! 💪🌍 #PolicyChange #ResilientCities #YouthEmpowerment #ClimateActionNow @HillaryMugota @ManeleMpofu @ShamisoMtisi @africanfoodrev @UVFT @hivos