The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of five of the seven Artisanal Miners who were killed after a mine shaft they were working on collapsed.
In a statement the ZRP announced the deceased as follows:-
Leo Chapondama of Maganyani village Masembura village, Bindura, Zolani Nyani (21) of Church Road, Chipadze Bindura, Samson Madyira (20) of Waerera Village, Jacob Madyira (20) of Waerera village and Mathew Madyira (23) of Waerera village, Masembura, Bindura.
Two other victims are yet to be identified by their next of kin.
Mining during the rainy season poses significant risks to artisanal and small-scale miners. Heavy rains claim lives at poorly maintained or secured mine shafts which collapse due to water infiltration, weakening soil stability in the rainy season.
Flash floods are a constant threat, often trapping miners underground or washing away equipment and ore. Increased water levels can lead to drowning incidents in poorly drained or abandoned mine pits. Additionally, wet conditions make it harder to transport materials and increase the risk of equipment failures and accidents.
Miners must prioritize safety measures, including proper drainage systems, reinforced supports, and regular weather monitoring to minimize these dangers. However, this is a challenge as some embark on illegal mining at disused mine shafts
