The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of mining fatalities recorded across the country in 2026, warning that the sector risks normalizing preventable deaths if urgent corrective measures are not taken.
The union's concerns come in the wake of a recent underground accident at Old Nick Mine near Bulawayo that claimed the lives of two mine workers. The mine is operated by Retinue Stars Investments.
ZDAMWU General Secretary J. Chinhema described the deaths as a painful reminder of the safety challenges facing mine workers and called for immediate intervention by regulators, mining companies and government institutions.
“Every few weeks, the nation is confronted with news of another miner losing their life. These incidents can no longer be treated as isolated accidents as they point to serious shortcomings in safety compliance, supervision and enforcement that must be urgently addressed,” Chinhema said.
The union noted that several mine workers have lost their lives in separate incidents across Zimbabwe during the first half of 2026, affecting workers in large scale, small scale and artisanal mining operations.
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Chinhema said the fatalities should serve as a wake up call to authorities responsible for protecting workers.
“As ZDAMWU, we are alarmed by the sustained loss of life in the mining sector this year. The industry cannot continue recording fatalities while stakeholders issue statements of regret after every incident. Workers need action, not condolences. Families need assurance that their loved ones will return home safely at the end of every shift,” he said.
The union challenged officials from the company, particularly the Inspectorate Department, to strengthen safety inspections and enforcement measures.“The first responsibility lies with the regulators. The department must intensify inspections, conduct rigorous audits and ensure that safety breaches attract meaningful sanctions. Employers who fail to maintain safe working environments must be held accountable because safety cannot be left to chance,” Chinhema said.
ZDAMWU also called on mining companies of all sizes to increase investment in occupational health and safety training, equipment maintenance, hazard identification systems and worker engagement programmes.
“The mining industry is enjoying increased investment and ambitious production targets, but there can be no justification for sacrificing worker safety in pursuit of output. Human life is priceless and one fatality is one too many,” Chinhema said.
The union further urged owners of mining claims currently being worked by artisanal miners to collaborate with them through formal arrangements and provide safety training aimed at reducing accidents and saving lives.
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