THE Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Mining Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has called on the government to institute urgent reforms in the mining sector as Zimbabwe marks 46 years of independence, saying workers’ welfare remains under threat.
The call comes amid persistent concerns over unsafe working conditions, wage disputes, and weak social protection in the mining industry, which the union says continue to undermine labour rights and broader national development goals.
ZDAMWU general secretary Justice Chinhema said the union’s priorities going forward include decent wages, safer working environments, and stronger social protection for mineworkers and their families.
He said the mining sector should contribute to genuine human development, dignity, and equality.
“The union's message was clear: the struggle for political freedom must be matched by economic justice,” he said.
Chinhema said ongoing challenges in the mining industry — including unsafe working conditions and wage theft — remain serious national development concerns that require urgent attention.
“We recognise our challenges: unsafe working conditions, wage theft and arrears, lack of social protection in areas like medical cover, and gaps in social dialogue remain persistent concerns,” he said.
He added that these issues go beyond labour disputes and represent broader national development challenges that must be addressed if Zimbabwe is to achieve Vision 2030.
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“We reaffirm our commitment to unity within the labour movement and collaboration with government and employers to build a mining sector that truly benefits all Zimbabweans,” Chinhema said.
