Published: 7 hours ago

RioZim Limited has been plunged into fresh controversy following the resignation of its company secretary, Ms Diedre Niehaus, amid allegations of corporate misconduct, internal hostility, and the suppression of serious complaints within the mining conglomerate.

Sources close to the matter told this publication that Ms Niehaus, a South African expatriate, tendered her resignation on October 24, 2025, reportedly citing an "intolerable and hostile work environment" allegedly orchestrated by some senior executives. She had joined the diversified resources group on July 1, 2024.

According to the sources, Ms Niehaus' decision to step down followed a series of internal disputes, including claims that the company suppressed a sexual harassment complaint and exposed her to ongoing authority inquiries into allegations of fraud, corruption and money laundering within the firm's operations.

It is further alleged that Ms Niehaus was "incensed" by what she described as systematic undermining of her statutory duties as company secretary, head of legal, and human resources and administration. She reportedly accused some executives of excluding her from critical deliberations, interfering with her official functions, and unilaterally breaching her employment contract.

The internal turmoil comes at a time when RioZim is already facing serious financial and operational challenges, with sections of its workforce having petitioned the High Court to place the company under corporate rescue.

A senior director, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the board had acknowledged Ms Niehaus' resignation and was aware of the issues she raised.

"We understand the market and our stakeholders are concerned," the director said. "While these matters, particularly the claims of an intolerable work environment, suppressed complaints, and undue interference in statutory duties, currently represent one side of an internal human resources matter, the board treats all such claims with the utmost gravity."

The director said the board was taking steps to ensure accountability and transparency.

"We are committed to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Therefore, the board will immediately launch a thorough, independent investigation into all points raised by Ms Niehaus to ascertain the full facts and ensure complete transparency and accountability," the director added.

He further emphasised that despite the controversy, management remained focused on stabilising the business.

"Our focus remains on the integrity of the company's operations and addressing the ongoing financial challenges. Notwithstanding these internal developments, management remains singularly focused on navigating RioZim out of its current operational and financial difficulties and securing the future viability of the business."

RioZim spokesperson Dr Wilson Gwatiringa confirmed Ms Niehaus' resignation but declined to discuss the reasons, citing confidentiality.

"We can confirm that Ms Niehaus resigned from her position as RioZim company secretary. However, due to the need for confidentiality and her privacy, we are not in any position to give further details except to say that this is a normal occurrence in the corporate world," Dr Gwatiringa said.

Efforts to obtain comment from Ms Niehaus were unsuccessful by the time of going to press.

In a separate interview earlier this month, RioZim chief executive, Mr Rajgopal Swami, urged employees to desist from actions that could derail the company's turnaround strategy, saying the corporate rescue application filed by some workers was undermining efforts to recapitalise and settle outstanding arrears.

Mr Swami expressed optimism about the company's recovery prospects.

"A successful turnaround is definitely possible," he said. "We are at the cusp of a breakthrough, but this requires unity and shared commitment among all stakeholders."

The unfolding developments at RioZim have intensified scrutiny of the company's corporate governance practices at a time when it is battling to restore stability and investor confidence.
- The Herald

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