ZMF President Slams Chinese Miners Over Worker Abuses

Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Henrietta Rushwaya has sounded the alarm over reports of worker abuse by some Chinese mining companies, describing the situation as a growing crisis that threatens the small-scale mining sector.

Speaking during the Mine Entra Exhibition held in Bulawayo, Rushwaya expressed deep concern over the harsh conditions faced by local miners, saying the suffering within mining communities has reached alarming levels.

“As a federation, we are deeply disturbed by the behaviour of a few foreign investors, particularly some Chinese nationals, who are mistreating our members,” she said. “Our people are facing exploitation, and in some instances, they are losing their lives. Zimbabweans are peace-loving and law-abiding, but we cannot allow our citizens to die on their own land.”

Rushwaya said the emotional impact of the ongoing abuse has left many small-scale miners traumatised. “We are bleeding inside,” she added, highlighting the pain endured by miners working in remote areas with minimal protection or oversight.

Despite these challenges, gold deliveries from local producers reached 33 tonnes by the end of September, demonstrating the miners’ resilience and continued contribution to the national economy.

Rushwaya warned that government inaction could have dire consequences, as many miners are growing increasingly frustrated. She cautioned that if authorities fail to act against abusers, tensions could escalate within the sector.

“We do not wish to see a revolt emerging from the small-scale mining community,” she warned. “But those who are toiling daily under abusive conditions know how volatile things could become if this problem continues unchecked.”

Her remarks have reignited public debate over the treatment of local workers by foreign investors, especially in gold-rich regions such as Mutoko and Silobela, where reports of abuse and environmental damage persist.

In response to the mounting concerns, the Chinese Embassy in Harare recently issued a statement advising its citizens working in Zimbabwe to comply with local laws and respect local communities.

The embassy urged Chinese companies to embrace fair labour practices and community engagement, saying:

“Chinese businesses in Zimbabwe should build trust through responsible environmental management and social investment. Corporate social responsibility initiatives are strongly encouraged as a sign of goodwill.”

While President Emmerson Mnangagwa has previously called for ethical behaviour from investors, many community leaders say more decisive action is needed to curb abuses and ensure mining benefits reach local people.