All is set for the 2025 Mine Rescue Association of Zimbabwe (MRAZ) National Mine Rescue Competition, taking place tomorrow, October 31, at How Mine in Matabeleland South. The highly anticipated event will see Zimbabwe’s leading mining companies compete in rigorous rescue simulations designed to test their emergency preparedness, teamwork, and safety excellence.
According to the official programme, proceedings will begin in the early hours of Friday morning. Teams will arrive at 0200 hours, followed by security protocols, inductions, medical check-ups, and breakfast facilitated by the SHEQ, Wellness Centre, and Club Controller teams.
By 0330 hours, both surface and underground rescue teams are expected to report for control, with the first team descending underground at 0400 hours and the last team at 0845 hours.
While underground rescue simulations take place, partners and sponsors will showcase their latest safety and rescue products at the LDV Club from 0900 hours, creating an interactive platform for industry collaboration and innovation.
At 1000 hours, teas will be served ahead of the official ceremony, which begins at 1200 hours.
How Mine Manager, Mr. O. Gwede, will deliver the welcome address, followed by remarks from Mr. David Matyanga of the Chamber of Mines Secretariat. The Senior Judge will then provide comments on the competition’s standards and performance before the Keynote Address is delivered by the Guest of Honour.
The Vote of Thanks will be given by Dr Chinyere, the President of MRAZ and Chairperson of the Chamber of Mines SHE Committee, before the much-anticipated presentation of prizes at 1310 hours, to be officiated by representatives from the Chamber of Mines and the Guest of Honour.
The event will conclude with a networking lunch at 1400 hours, allowing participants, stakeholders, and safety professionals to interact and share experiences.
This year’s competition will feature some of the country’s leading mines competing in both Donning and Non-Donning categories.
Participating Teams:
Donning: Blanket Mine, How Mine, Hwange Colliery Company Ltd, Mimosa Mining Company Ltd, Redwing Mine, Unki Mine, Zimplats Mine
Non-Donning: Blanket Mine, Freda Rebecca Mine, Jena Mines, Pan African, Shamva Gold Mine, Zimplats SMC
The MRAZ National Mine Rescue Competition is a flagship event in Zimbabwe’s mining calendar, promoting safety preparedness, technical competence, and teamwork across the mining sector. It also serves as a platform for continuous improvement in emergency response standards, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s mines remain among the safest in the region.
