Mining stakeholders quiz govt over rising deaths, 110 workers die in just nine months
Business Reporter
THREE mining industry stakeholders have expressed disdain over the surging number of employees dying at the workplace amid calls for serious interventions to curb the fatalities.
The concerns come against a background where the State of Mining Industry, Survey 2023 report recently released by the Chamber of Mines revealed that a total 110 fatalities were reported during the period between January and September 2023, adding that 92% of the accidents under review occurred underground, with large-scale operations contributing 18% to the total accidents.
Against the background, the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), Zimbabwe Diamond Allied Mine Workers Union (ZDAMWU) and the Anti-Corruption Trust of Southern Africa (ACTSA) expressed deep concerns over the government’s lack of action in addressing the increasing number of employees dying and getting injured on duty.
The trio said the rising number of employee fatalities and injuries occurring in mining areas is alarming underscoring that these incidents not only result in the loss of valuable human lives but also inflict immeasurable pain and suffering on affected workers, their families, friends, and communities.
“We observe that, more often than not, mine workers who get injured at work get fired without compensating them for their injuries which sometimes constitute permanent disabilities.
“More disturbing are allegations that the line ministries and other regulatory authorities give a blind eye to these accidents, and the lack of enforcement leads to an escalation since those responsible enjoy impunity,” said the trio in a joint statement.
The grouping said urgent action must be taken to address this growing crisis and ensure that every worker enjoys the right to a safe and healthy working environment amid calls for the recognition of the safety and well-being of employees as a top priority for both employers and government.
The trio said while some progress has been made in improving workplace safety standards, it is evident that more needs to be done to prevent these avoidable tragedies.
They said the relevant line Ministries—the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and mining companies must strengthen regulatory frameworks and enforce stringent safety standards across the mining sector.
“Furthermore, we urge employers to prioritize the implementation of robust safety measures within their organizations. This includes conducting thorough risk assessments, providing adequate safety equipment, fostering a culture of safety awareness, and empowering employees to report any concerns or hazards they encounter.
“Conduct thorough investigations into each employee fatality and / or injury to determine the root causes and hold accountable those responsible for negligence or non-compliance with safety regulations,” said the trio.
Among other recommendations, the grouping called on the sector’s employers to facilitate the compensation of all those injured at work as well as compensating the families of all those who would have died during the course and scope of executing their mining duties and responsibilities.
“To support these efforts, ZDAMWU, CNRG and ACT-SA remain committed to promoting workplace safety, anti-corruption and advocating for the rights of employees in Zimbabwe.
“We will continue to actively engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure a safer working environment for all. We believe that by collectively addressing this issue, we can bring about meaningful change and prevent further loss of life,” the trio added.
