By Kwedu News
The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has expanded its reach to Matabeleland South Province by opening an office in Gwanda District. The union aims to educate mining workers about their rights and working conditions.
Recently, ZDAMWU hosted a workshop for miners and stakeholders at a local hotel. Participants learned about labor laws, grievance procedures, and dispute resolution.
Justice Chinhema, ZDAMWU Secretary General, emphasized that miners deserve respect due to the significant revenue the industry generates for the country. “Mining companies should create a healthy environment for their workers, such that workers are physically and mentally healthy,” he stated. He also noted that the union’s goals include empowering miners and improving industry practices.
Dr. Munyaradzi Sidakwa, a health official from Doctors Without Borders, agreed with Chinhema. He stressed the importance of good sanitation to prevent diseases. “As health practitioners, our first port of call is a healthy life. Workers should not be allowed to work without safety gear to protect them from infections and injuries. All mine workers should be given privileges to visit health department for health check-ups,” Dr. Sidakwa said.
Abraham Ncube, a representative from the National Aids Council of Zimbabwe, highlighted the need for miners to practice safe measures. He revealed that approximately 6,000 people in Matabeleland South are HIV/AIDS positive, a statistic that alarmed workshop attendees.
