Mberengwa, Zimbabwe – January 9, 2025 – Two people are feared to have died on the spot after a 22-meter-deep mine shaft collapsed while they were illegally mining at Knot Brothers Farm in Mberengwa. The tragic incident occurred around midday, leaving rescue efforts ongoing and authorities urging stricter adherence to mining safety regulations.
According to Midlands provincial community relations liaison office, “The victims, identified as Farai Machenjedze and Desire Mareva, whose full particulars are yet to be confirmed, were working underground when the shaft suddenly caved in. Three other miners were working outside the shaft at the time of the incident.
According to witnesses, the collapse buried the two men under heavy debris, with one victim reportedly crying out for help. Despite attempts by colleagues on the surface to rescue them, their efforts were hampered by the unstable, rain-soaked soil, which continued to collapse as they worked.
Machenjedze was later found partially covered in debris and still calling for assistance, but rescuers were unable to reach him due to the deteriorating conditions.
The incident was reported to the police, who have since confirmed that rescue efforts are ongoing, though the situation remains precarious due to the loose, wet soil caused by recent rainfall.
Poorly managed artisanal and small-scale mine sites are every rainy season, at risk of collapse. As rainwater infiltrates the soil it makes it heavier and less stable. This increases the load on the underground voids and walls, which can result in collapses.
Also, Artisanal mines often lack proper support beams or reinforcements to hold up the mine walls and roof. The design and depth of artisanal shafts are usually not based on sound engineering principles, making them vulnerable to collapse.
Despite all this, Artisanal miners usually continue to work in unsafe conditions despite warnings, driven by economic necessity.
