The Center for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), a research, advocacy, and civic society organization, has slammed the inadequate compensation offered to the family of Taurai Dozva, a mine worker who tragically died while on duty at the Chinese-owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Gold Mine in Old Mutare.
By Ryan Chigoche
The incident, which sparked public outrage, occurred on January 10, 2025, when 39-year-old Taurai Dozva, who worked as a spotter, was struck by a 40-tonne tipper truck while directing the movement of heavy vehicles. His death left his wife, Modester Samunda, and their three children, the youngest of whom is just nine months old, devastated.
However, what followed has only deepened the tragedy. The company’s response has raised serious concerns over the exploitation and mistreatment of local workers by Chinese-owned operations in Zimbabwe.
Initially, the company provided $3,500 for burial expenses but then offered a meagre $2,000 as final compensation to the grieving family. According to CNRG, Dozva’s family was allegedly coerced into accepting the $2,000 despite their objections. They were forced to sign a document under duress, acknowledging the amount as “sufficient compensation,” which only added to their distress.
“The company’s actions reflect a wider pattern of unfair and derogatory treatment faced by local workers in Chinese-owned mines across Zimbabwe,” said CNRG in a statement. “The family of Taurai Dozva is now left without their primary breadwinner, struggling with the emotional and financial burden of his death while being exploited by an employer that shows no respect for their dignity.”
CNRG strongly condemned the $2,000 compensation, calling it grossly inadequate, particularly given Dozva’s role as the sole provider for his family. They are calling for a more appropriate compensation amount of $20,000, arguing that this would better reflect the financial and emotional toll of his death on his family.
“This tragedy underscores a recurring issue of exploitation within the Chinese-owned mining sector in Zimbabwe,” the statement continued. “The disregard for local workers’ safety and well-being has gone unchecked for far too long. The company must be held accountable for its actions, and the government must take immediate steps to enforce stronger labour laws and regulations.”
In addition to the issue of compensation, CNRG highlighted the mining company’s insufficient safety standards, which they believe directly contributed to the fatal accident.
