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Mine workers demand US$650 minimum wage, stronger safety measures
2 hrs ago |
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The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has renewed its call for a minimum wage of US$650 for mine workers and for stricter safety standards across Zimbabwe's mining sector.
Speaking in Hwange during Workers' Day commemorations, ZDAMWU General Secretary Justice Chinhema said the union remains committed to improving wages, working conditions and worker representation. Commemorated under the theme "Empowering Workers – Empowering Voices", Chinhema said mine workers remain central to Zimbabwe's economic growth, yet many continue to live in poverty despite contributing significantly to national revenue.
"We reiterate our call in the industry for a minimum wage of US$650, reflecting the dangerous nature of mining work and the value of the minerals workers extract," he said.
Chinhema highlighted the recent Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), gazetted under Statutory Instrument 71 of 2026, which replaces the outdated 1990 framework and introduces stronger protections for workers. He described the agreement as progress but stressed that more must be done to ensure fair and safe working conditions across the sector.
The union also raised concern over persistent workplace accidents and occupational diseases such as silicosis and tuberculosis, calling for stricter enforcement of safety standards. "Safety in our mines is not negotiable. Every worker deserves to return home alive and unharmed," Chinhema said.
He urged mining companies to prioritise occupational health by providing adequate protective equipment, conducting regular inspections, and improving training and medical monitoring. Chinhema said ZDAMWU is ready to work with employers, describing trade unions as partners in building a productive and sustainable mining industry.
He encouraged mine workers across the country to join the union, saying stronger membership enhances collective bargaining power.
This year's commemorations — held in Hwange for the first time — also marked a new partnership between ZDAMWU and community radio station Lyeja FM, aimed at amplifying workers' voices and improving access to information on labour rights and safety.
"ZDAMWU is here, and ZDAMWU is delivering. We will continue to stand with workers until every mine worker lives and works in dignity," Chinhema said.
Speaking in Hwange during Workers' Day commemorations, ZDAMWU General Secretary Justice Chinhema said the union remains committed to improving wages, working conditions and worker representation. Commemorated under the theme "Empowering Workers – Empowering Voices", Chinhema said mine workers remain central to Zimbabwe's economic growth, yet many continue to live in poverty despite contributing significantly to national revenue.
"We reiterate our call in the industry for a minimum wage of US$650, reflecting the dangerous nature of mining work and the value of the minerals workers extract," he said.
Chinhema highlighted the recent Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), gazetted under Statutory Instrument 71 of 2026, which replaces the outdated 1990 framework and introduces stronger protections for workers. He described the agreement as progress but stressed that more must be done to ensure fair and safe working conditions across the sector.
The union also raised concern over persistent workplace accidents and occupational diseases such as silicosis and tuberculosis, calling for stricter enforcement of safety standards. "Safety in our mines is not negotiable. Every worker deserves to return home alive and unharmed," Chinhema said.
He urged mining companies to prioritise occupational health by providing adequate protective equipment, conducting regular inspections, and improving training and medical monitoring. Chinhema said ZDAMWU is ready to work with employers, describing trade unions as partners in building a productive and sustainable mining industry.
He encouraged mine workers across the country to join the union, saying stronger membership enhances collective bargaining power.
This year's commemorations — held in Hwange for the first time — also marked a new partnership between ZDAMWU and community radio station Lyeja FM, aimed at amplifying workers' voices and improving access to information on labour rights and safety.
"ZDAMWU is here, and ZDAMWU is delivering. We will continue to stand with workers until every mine worker lives and works in dignity," Chinhema said.
Source - Byo24News
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