ZCTU slams Sino-Bikita minerals

Published: 26 September 2025

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has accused the government of compromising national sovereignty by permitting Chinese investors to operate mining companies that allegedly violate workers' rights across the country.

In his inaugural statement as Secretary General, Tirivanhu Marimo highlighted Sino-Bikita Minerals, claiming the company's treatment of employees reflects a broader pattern of abuse in Chinese-run operations in Zimbabwe.

"Reports of workers being beaten, intimidated, and subjected to degrading treatment by both foreign managers and local accomplices are not only barbaric but unlawful," Marimo said.

The ZCTU leader argued that these abuses violate Sections 51, 53, and 65 of the Constitution, which guarantee human dignity, protection from cruel treatment, and safe, fair labour practices. Section 4A of the Labour Act [Chapter 28:01] further prohibits forced labour and mandates safe working conditions. Marimo also cited International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions that Zimbabwe is obliged to uphold.

The trade union called on the government to immediately investigate and prosecute perpetrators, whether foreign or local. Marimo demanded that labour inspections be intensified and enforced by the Ministry of Labour and the National Social Security Authority (NSSA).

He also urged the suspension of mining licences for companies found guilty of systemic abuse until they fully comply with labour laws, and called for compensation and medical rehabilitation for affected workers.

Marimo proposed a tripartite dialogue involving government, labour representatives, and investors to establish enforceable standards across the mining sector.

"The mounting complaints of barbaric conduct at Chinese operations constitute not just a breach of labour rights, but a direct assault on Zimbabwe's sovereignty," he said. "If the Government's mantra of ‘Zimbabwe is Open for Business' is to have legitimacy, it cannot serve as a smokescreen for modern-day slavery where foreign investment becomes synonymous with unchecked exploitation and impunity."

According to United Nations COMTRADE data, Zimbabwe exported US$221.03 million worth of mineral substances to China in 2024, highlighting the scale of Sino-Zimbabwean economic ties despite concerns over labour practices.
- NewZimbabwe

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