In response to the rising number of mining-related accidents and fatalities during rainy seasons, the Young Miners Foundation (YMF) has launched a nationwide safety awareness campaign aimed at reducing risks and promoting safer mining practices. The initiative comes at a critical time, as the country prepares for the rainy season, which often exacerbates the dangers associated with mining.
According to Payne Kupfuwa, Chief Executive Officer of YMF, the foundation has observed an alarming surge in accidents, many of which have resulted in severe injuries and loss of life.
“We have seen a significant increase in incidents at mining sites, particularly in areas with disused or poorly maintained shafts,” Kupfuwa noted. “As we approach the rainy season, the risks are even higher, and it is crucial that we take proactive steps to ensure the safety of our miners.”
The first two months of 2024 alone saw 37 incidents in the mining sector, leading to 33 fatalities and 27 serious injuries. Most of these tragedies were caused by fall-of-ground accidents and shaft collapses, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. Provinces such as Midlands and Mashonaland West were among the hardest hit, recording a combined total of 20 fatalities.
In response to these disturbing statistics, YMF has embarked on a series of occupational health and safety training programs, targeting small-scale and young miners across all provinces. The foundation recently conducted a training session in Blu-ray, with plans to extend these programs to other regions in the coming months. The goal is to educate miners on the importance of working in secure environments and to encourage the use of new, well-maintained mining sites rather than disused ones that pose significant hazards.
“We are committed to cascading this vital information throughout the country,” Kupfuwa said. “By equipping our miners with the knowledge and tools they need to operate safely, we can help prevent further loss of life and contribute to a more sustainable and productive mining sector.”
Kupfuwa also emphasized the importance of each mining operation having a dedicated safety, health, and environmental unit to regularly inspect mining sites and ensure they are safe for workers. “Safety is not just about compliance; it’s about saving lives and ensuring that our miners can continue to contribute to the national economy in a sustainable way,” he added.
As the mining sector remains a key contributor to Zimbabwe’s economy, particularly through the efforts of small-scale miners, the YMF’s initiative is seen as a crucial step towards safeguarding the industry’s future. With proper training and adherence to safety protocols, the foundation believes that Zimbabwe can achieve both its economic and safety goals, reducing the risk of accidents while boosting productivity.
