HCCL Management Urged to Respect Workers' Rights

Hwange Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) Chief Executive Officer William Gambiza has been urged to prioritize workers' rights as he takes on his role as the company's permanent CEO, a position he officially assumed in April this year. This call comes amid allegations that previous management had violated labor rights.

Gambiza, who had been serving as Acting CEO before his permanent appointment, is no stranger to the challenges faced by the company. His tenure begins during a period of focus on operational improvements, financial stability, and strengthening HCCL's presence in Zimbabwe's coal industry.

On Saturday, Justice Chinhema, General Secretary of the Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union, wrote a letter to Gambiza, urging him to prioritize workers' rights as he leads the company.

"We congratulate you on your appointment as CEO of HCCL. We acknowledge the challenges facing the mining sector and the responsibilities that come with leading HCCL. Sir, as you assume your new role, we urge you to prioritize workers' welfare, safety, and fair labor practices within your organization, as well as addressing challenges faced by workers employed by Zhong Jian Investments, Mopani Mine, South Mining, Dinson Mega Coal, and other mining companies contracted by HCCL," Chinhema wrote.

Chinhema highlighted multiple challenges faced by workers employed by these contractors, emphasizing the need for immediate and ongoing action to address their grievances.

"Most workers employed by these companies are on short-term fixed contracts rather than permanent employment. They work in very hazardous conditions, exposed to health risks such as heat, dust, noise, fatigue, and uncontrolled gas emissions," Chinhema explained.

"Workers are forced to work long hours without access to clean drinking water or proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Many are subjected to physical abuse, women face sexual harassment, illegal salary deductions occur frequently, and workers are often barred from joining trade unions or forming workers' committees. Discrimination, salary discrepancies, and the absence of works council meetings further compound these issues."

He also pointed out that workers struggle to communicate effectively with supervisors at the mine and face issues such as inadequate salaries, lack of housing allowances, and insufficient transportation to and from work, all of which contribute to their poor general welfare.

"Addressing these concerns will be crucial to building trust and stability. With your leadership, we are hopeful for improvements in the following areas:

• Enhanced communication and transparency.
• Prompt resolution of outstanding workers' grievances, including those of retired former employees.
• Commitment to fair labor practices and compliance with regulations.
• Improved occupational health and safety measures."

Chinhema assured Gambiza of the union's willingness to engage constructively with the administration to address these concerns.

"Our door is open to dialogue and collaboration," he added.

Gambiza has yet to respond to the letter.

William Gambiza is an accomplished mining investment professional with 18 years of experience in mineral asset management and investment banking. Before his appointment as CEO, he held several senior positions in the mining industry and mining finance sectors. He began serving as Acting CEO of HCCL in February 2023 before being permanently appointed in April 2023.