Published: 3 hours ago

The National Mine Workers Union of Zimbabwe (NMWUZ) has petitioned Parliament, raising concerns over alleged widespread labour and environmental violations at Chinese-owned mining companies operating in the country.

The union formally submitted the petition to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda, yesterday, naming more than 20 Chinese-operated mines accused of systematically flouting Zimbabwe's labour and environmental laws.

NMWUZ president Kurebwa Javangwe Nhomboka described the conditions at these firms as akin to "slavery," alleging that workers are underpaid, subjected to inhuman working conditions, and often denied necessary protective gear, putting their health and safety at risk. "There have been reports of workers being beaten, dehumanised, threatened, and even killed for demanding their wages," he said, adding that some employees are barred from joining trade unions, in violation of international labour standards.

The petition called for urgent legislative intervention, urging Parliament to craft a statutory instrument to ensure that Chinese investors comply with local labour laws and halt environmental degradation in affected communities.

NMWUZ accused the companies of widespread environmental violations, including land degradation, water pollution, dust pollution, and deforestation. "Dust from ore-hauling trucks smothers homes, water sources, crops, and grazing fields, creating health hazards and damaging livelihoods," the petition stated. It added that villagers, including children and pregnant women, are increasingly suffering from respiratory illnesses, while livestock is dying and children risk accidents on dust-covered roads.

The union cited the Environmental Management Act, which mandates the prevention of pollution, adherence to environmental standards, and the implementation of environmental impact assessments.

China has become a key investor in Zimbabwe's mining sector amid ongoing economic challenges, but NMWUZ says compliance with national labour and environmental laws remains a major concern.
- online

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