The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Mine Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has called for stronger safety measures and improved housing standards in mining communities following a fire at Lone Mine that claimed three lives.
The victims died after a cabin at the mine compound caught fire last week in Makwe near Gwanda.
Zimbabwe Republic Police Matabeleland South provincial spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube identified the deceased as Believe Zhou (32), Bester Ndakura (30) and Blessing Zhou (3), all from Mberengwa.
In a statement, ZDAMWU general secretary Justice Chinhema described the tragedy as deeply painful and unacceptable, urging urgent reforms in mine safety and emergency preparedness.
“Workers must not live and sleep in conditions where a single incident can wipe out lives and livelihoods. We call for a thorough and transparent investigation into the cause of the fire, and for management, relevant authorities, and all stakeholders to take immediate steps to prevent a repeat of such a disaster,” Chinhema said.
He stressed that the safety, dignity and welfare of mine workers must be prioritised at all times.
“ZDAMWU stands in support of the affected families and workers during this painful period, and we urge the responsible mine to address the accommodation anomaly at Lone Mine,” Chinhema said.
The union further called for nationwide improvement in fire safety systems and housing standards across mining communities.
- Harare businesswoman turns heat on police CCU over 'bias'
- Letter to my people: Criminals are hiding in plain sight
- 5 Zim cops off to South Sudan
- Crime tech: Technology can eradicate corruption
