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Multi-listed gold-focused miner, Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc, has reported a fatal accident at its flagship Blanket Mine in Gwanda, the company announced Tuesday, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The incident, which occurred on September 22 and was related to secondary blasting operations, resulted in the death of one employee.
“It is with regret that Caledonia reports this accident,” the company stated, extending its “condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased.” Caledonia emphasised that its immediate priority is supporting those affected and conducting a “thorough investigation” in cooperation with local authorities.
The tragedy presents a sobering challenge for a company that has heavily invested in safety. In its recent sustainability reports, Caledonia has highlighted a “zero-harm” goal, celebrating millions of fatality-free shifts and implementing robust safety protocols like mandatory health checks, extensive first-aid training, and a “Stop, Look, Assess, Manage” policy for all employees.
Despite these measures, the dangerous nature of deep-level mining means risk can never be fully eliminated. This is the third fatality at the mine since 2022, following incidents in 2022 and 2024, each of which the company met with similar investigations and reaffirmations of its safety commitment.
The latest accident highlights the delicate balance that mining companies must strike between achieving production targets and ensuring absolute worker safety. For Caledonia, which is listed on the NYSE American, AIM, and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange, the focus will now be on the investigation’s findings and reinforcing its safety culture to prevent future tragedies.
