In March 2024, China Dialogue reports that the Sabi Star lithium mine in Zimbabwe, built by Chinese state-owned company Power China in 2022, has brought both job opportunities and challenges to local communities. Around 40 families were relocated without proper consultation, and students from nearby schools have been dropping out to work at the mine due to poverty and high fees. The mine's owner, Max Mind Investments, has stated its intention to introduce a bursary for underprivileged students but has not provided further details.

We invited Power China and Max Mind Investments' parent company Chengxin Lithium Group to comment on these allegations. Power China provided a response but Chengxin Lithium Group did not.