The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Mineral Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has brought forward concerning allegations against certain foreign owned mining entities operating within Zimbabwe.
According to Justice Chinhema, the General Secretary of ZDAMWU, these companies stand accused of implementing a wage system reminiscent of colonial-era practices that discriminated against black Africans in favor of their white counterparts.
Chinhema’s assertions shed light on a troubling trend where these foreign owned firms are reportedly favoring their own nationals for senior positions, even when local personnel possess the requisite skills and qualifications.
The union secretary lamented instances where qualified Zimbabwean workers are consistently relegated to subordinate roles, while unqualified foreigners receive notably higher salaries—reportedly up to four times more than their local equivalents.
Of particular concern is the perceived disregard for local talent in favor of imported skills. Chinhema highlighted the irony of such practices given the substantial number of unemployed graduates within Zimbabwe.
He suggested a structured approach, proposing that Chinese companies should limit the period of foreign worker engagements for skill development purposes, advocating a maximum duration of one year before their return to their home countries.
