In late May 2024, Lusaka played host to a week of global discussions on Natural Resource Governance (NRG). Accountability Lab hosted the BHP Foundation’s NRG Partners Learning eXchange Dialogues (PLxD). The event attracted over 90 participants, including Foundation partners, regional organizations, and distinguished experts from various sectors. The intention of the PLxD was to encourage reflection, share knowledge, and build robust networks to advance the field of NRG.

The PLxD underscored the importance of integrating diverse expertise and using reliable data to enhance NRG. Key takeaways included the need for expertise integration by combining insights from various stakeholders to develop effective governance strategies. Participants also delved into the efficient and ethical use of data to inform decisions and track progress as well as on local Initiatives and ensuring community involvement for equitable outcomes.

Dr. Muza Gondwe, Program Manager for NRG at the BHP Foundation, set a collaborative tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in advancing NRG. “Learning is the cornerstone of growth, and when combined with partnership, it amplifies that growth by leveraging collective knowledge and resources,” she shared. Dr. Gondwe underscored that building connections through common interests lays a strong foundation for collaboration, while embracing differences enriches discussions and insights. Her remarks framed the PLxD as an opportunity to harness diverse expertise and challenge existing assumptions to shape governance practices that ensure equitable and effective resource management. Below, we highlight some of our key learnings from the event.

Addressing governance challenges and emerging trends

A distinguished panel, including Rueben Lifuka, Musonda Kapena from the Namfumu Conservation Trust, and Farai Mutondoro from the Africa Institute of Environmental Law, addressed key topics and emerging trends in NRG. The panel discussed deficiencies in current international frameworks, noting that while established standards address revenue distribution, human rights, and environmental considerations, inadequate governance and corruption in resource-rich regions such as Brazil, Honduras, and Vietnam often undermine their effectiveness.

The discussion also explored the economic value of biodiversity and the challenges African governments face in incorporating it into economic models. For example, the Zambia-DRC Memorandum of Understanding for battery manufacturing was cited as a case where market sustainability and regional value chain issues have posed significant hurdles. Despite the growing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investments, governance lapses in the mining sector remain a major concern. The panel also examined the geopolitical dynamics influencing NRG, focusing on China’s substantial involvement in Africa’s mining sector. The experts urged African leaders to prioritize democratic reforms and ensure local community inclusion in decision-making processes.

Reuben Lifuka highlighted the event’s effectiveness in fostering partnerships: “Accountability Lab provided a platform for learning and collaboration, allowing us to see what’s happening in the space and how we can interface with colleagues from different initiatives.” He added, “The goal is to understand new dimensions in the field and identify opportunities for collaboration with various initiatives. Events like these bring together diverse perspectives and expertise.”

Unlocking the power of data

Carey Klutz and Edwin Muhumuza from the Open Contracting Partnership (OCP) delivered a compelling presentation on innovative methods for assessing the impact of public procurement. Their framework emphasizes improved procurement spending, population impact, and evidence of outcomes. Klutz and Muhumuza showcased the successful application of this framework in Paraguay’s Lift Accelerator Program, which effectively used open contracting data to evaluate the involvement of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and identify obstacles these businesses face.

The session highlighted the importance of using concrete evidence to demonstrate specific contributions to systemic change, rather than relying on vague assertions. The speakers stressed the need for tailored metrics, gradual targets, and adaptable monitoring mechanisms to track progress and manage expectations accurately. Engaging stakeholders and persuading governmental bodies to prioritize measurable impact were identified as crucial for the successful implementation of open contracting practices.

Transforming transparency and community engagement

Karabo Rajuili from Open Ownership (OO) and Carolyn Burns from Resolve provided valuable insights into enhancing transparency and community engagement. Rajuili discussed OO’s global impact, including policy reforms requiring extractive companies to disclose their beneficial owners, which has positively influenced monitoring and decision-making processes. Burns presented the Community Smart Consultation and Consent (CSCC) Initiative, which focuses on involving local communities directly in resource management. Despite challenges like wildfires, the initiative has shown resilience and adaptability, addressing diverse community needs through iterative feedback-based approaches.

Advocating for data-driven policy reforms

A panel featuring Dr. Oliver Maponga from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Dr. Fatima Mandhu from the University of Zambia, Pauline Mundia from the Federation of Small Scale Miners, and Francis Chipasha from the Ministry of Mines, Government of Zambia, highlighted the importance of data-driven advocacy in NRG. Dr. Maponga emphasized integrating meticulous research and case studies into policy reforms, citing successful collaborative reforms in Ghana as an example. Additionally, grassroots initiatives like those in Peru advocating for artisanal mining formalization were highlighted to illustrate the positive impact of community-led efforts on enhancing legal rights and transparency.

Rethinking global collective action

A panel including Nsama Chikwanka from Publish What You Pay (PWYP), Jonathan Katz from the Brookings Institute, and Dr. Mario Picon from Results 4 Development explored the complexities of global collective action in NRG. They discussed how diverse interests and market forces influence the inconsistent nature of collective action and proposed forming innovative partnerships involving state, private sector, and non-state actors. They also stressed the importance of leveraging technology to improve communication and mobilize support for NRG initiatives.

Participants valued the event for its global learning and partnership-building opportunities. Jonathan Katz remarked, “It’s really important to hear from all these different experts and civil society leaders because it mirrors what we see globally.” He added, “Being present made me realize the impact we were discussing.” Katz also noted, “Many of the partners I met during the sessions are the right people to work with, and I wouldn’t have met them without this workshop.”

Mario Picon appreciated the event’s role in fostering international collaboration, stating, “This has been a fantastic opportunity to understand different challenges and recognize our limitations.” He also mentioned, “The event confirmed that collaboration between various programs and organizations, whether globally or locally, is already happening, which is very promising.”

Amplifying impact through creative storytelling 

Teldah Mawarire from Internews Zambia and Naseera Noor-Mahomed from Accountability Lab explored how creative storytelling and strategic stakeholder engagement can transform NRG. Their research highlighted the importance of blending creativity with factual accuracy, ensuring fair stakeholder representation, and presenting information in accessible formats. Strategic stakeholder engagement, including identifying and involving diverse stakeholders, was recognized as crucial for building trust and reducing fragmentation in governance processes.

A multi-stakeholder model to emulate

Joanne Jones, Ian Mwiinga, and Edwin Wuadom Warden from the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) discussed the development of the EITI multi-stakeholder group (MSG) model. The EITI has expanded to include renewable energy, fisheries, and forestry. However, challenges persist in securing sustainable funding and managing diverse stakeholders. The panel recommended enhancing civil society capabilities, balancing stakeholder influence, and advocating for adaptability within the EITI framework.

Strengthening local communities

Discussions emphasized the crucial role of local leadership and digital technologies in strengthening communities and promoting sustainable development. Case studies from Colombia and Zambia demonstrated how digital platforms can improve service accessibility and create economic opportunities. The discussions stressed the importance of local engagement and transparent resource management practices in achieving sustainable development goals.

A field visit to Kabwela village revealed ongoing issues with mining operations, including dissatisfaction with compensation and limited job opportunities for local youth. Residents highlighted the need for improved transparency and fair treatment, pointing out insufficient corporate social responsibility efforts. This case underscores the need to address community concerns and enhance governance practices in resource-rich areas.

The dialogues deepened understanding and commitment to effective NRG, emphasizing collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and community engagement. Through continued efforts and adherence to these principles, stakeholders can achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes in natural resource management.

Tamika Halwiindi echoed this sentiment: “Events like these, hosted by Accountability Lab in collaboration with Transparency International Zambia and supported by the BHP Foundation, provide a space for exploring new dimensions and connections.” She added, “This has been a valuable platform for collaboration and learning,” highlighting the significant impact of diverse perspectives and global engagement in advancing both local and international goals.

Naseera Noor-Mahomed