IIn the 1980s and 1990s, when companies affiliated with the Chamber of Mines employed more than 60,000 workers across the country, the total annual deaths barely exceeded 19.
It would cause an uproar when the number reached 21.
In 2023, the Midlands alone recorded a staggering 45 deaths with a further 13 killed in January 2024 alone.
Under normal circumstances, this situation should be declared a national disaster.
On Monday, the Environment Management Authority (EMA), Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, mining groups and other stakeholders met at a lodge in Shorugwe to create awareness on mining safety and reduce accidents and deaths.
A ministry official who spoke at the workshop blamed haphazard mining regulations and the failure to employ qualified mine managers as the main causes of the accidents. The officer accused the miners of not adhering to mining and safety rules.
Joel Mosikiwa, an engineer for the Midlands Ministry of Mines, said the miners were very intrepid and were working in old mines such as the German mines where the rocks are loose and often encounter toxic gases.
“Accidents are increasing and we are here to educate you on how to reduce this problem. We are aware that inexperienced miners are sometimes placed at the front of underground mines, causing accidents. People come directly from Gokwi where the primary business is cotton farming, and suddenly… Being thrown into the depths of mines without any experience. What should you expect? Accidents, of course.
“Avoid mining in old shafts like German shafts, they are now death traps, and do not cut the shafts that support the mine. Gas and loose rocks also cause deaths in the mining sector,” Mosekiwa said.
Mining engineer Julio Magiera said the Chorugwe and Mberingwa areas had the highest death rates in the Midlands province.
“During 2023, an estimated 45 miners were killed in accidents in the Midlands. Another 13 were killed in January 2024 alone. Let us be vigilant when mining especially during the rainy season. “Mine owners must take safety measures for employees to avoid loss of life,” Magiera said.
EMA spokesman Oswald Ndlovu stressed the need to conduct an environmental impact assessment as this leads to informed decision-making.
“This year, every miner has to put their house in order. When you contract someone to mine in your area make sure the pits are closed. It is not the responsibility of the EMA to close these waste areas,” Ndlovu said.
The European Medicines Agency has also complained about waste dumping in mines.
“We are seeing a lot of garbage in the mine buildings. Cleaning is now mandatory and if you do not do it you will be punished by law,” Ndlovu said.
Delegates at the workshop complained about the absence of Chinese mining entities and Zemasco.
“We have received complaints against dumping sites in Zemasko where three children lost their lives. The company should also be here for this workshop. We expect there will be Chinese miners here, they are mining all around Šurujoy causing pollution,” said Sara Zvenica. The air due to the bombings.” Masvingo Mirror
