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“Enough is Enough” – ZMF Declares War on Foreign Miners Abusing workers

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“Enough is Enough” – ZMF Declares War on Foreign Miners Abusing workers

The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has announced plans to engage with the government to address the conduct of foreign miners, particularly regarding the ongoing abuse faced by local miners, especially within the small-scale mining sector.

By Ryan Chigoche

This move follows growing concerns about the exploitation of local miners by foreign companies, particularly those from China, operating within the small-scale mining industry. One such incident involved a Chinese national allegedly pointing a pistol at an employee during a dispute—a troubling example of the ongoing mistreatment of locals by foreign nationals in the sector.

During the ZMF 2025 Strategic Meeting on gold held in the capital, Henrietta Rushwaya, president of the federation, emphasized the need for a decisive stand against the abusive behaviour exhibited by foreign nationals in Zimbabwe’s mining industry.

“We have seen instances of abuse within our sector, both from our own members and so-called investors. This abuse must stop. We are tired of seeing our people mistreated by foreigners while we fold our hands. This is unacceptable, and we are making our position clear: enough is enough. Abuse from investors must come to an end. Gone are the days when a certain race is considered superior to another. Why are foreigners coming in to fight us over two hectares of land? They must be chased away,” Rushwaya stated.

She further emphasized that any investment claims under 50 hectares should not be regarded as legitimate.

“We are now saying that if an investor’s claim is less than 50 hectares, they cannot call themselves an investor. They must pack their bags and go. This is our country, and we will not tolerate foreigners fighting with us over small pieces of land,” she added.

Rushwaya also revealed that the ZMF has formally requested a meeting with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to discuss the ongoing issues.

“About two days ago, we made a special request to the Minister of Mines and Mining Development. We requested a special meeting to address the conduct of foreign companies and individuals mining in Zimbabwe. There are no sacred cows in this country. The law should apply equally to all. Let us continue to uphold these principles as we move forward into a prosperous 2025,” she said.

Despite widespread reports on social media, no foreign nationals have yet been jailed in cases of abuse, leaving locals feeling marginalized in their own country.

The ZMF has long advocated for a policy reserving mining rights for locals on plots of up to 50 hectares, particularly in response to the influx of foreigners into the sector.

However, Chinese interests in Zimbabwe’s small-scale mining industry continue to enjoy protection due to powerful political connections.

Chinese companies in the small-scale mining sector have faced accusations of riverbed mining and land grabs, particularly in the chrome sector, where they allegedly pushed local miners off prime mining areas.

“We must approach the authorities to address the issue of mine grabs and the name-dropping of politically connected elites who continue mining on rivers. Small-scale miners are not the chief culprits in riverbed mining, and we cannot afford to let this practice continue,” Rushwaya added.

In recent weeks, anti-Chinese sentiment has been on the rise across several African nations, with protests and violent incidents reported. In countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique, locals have targeted Chinese nationals, frustrated by their involvement in illegal mining and the appropriation of businesses reserved for locals, alongside contributing to massive environmental degradation.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 January 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 24 January 2025

These are the official gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 24 January 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$83.37/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$82.49g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$81.61/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$80.73/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$79.40/g

Fire Assay CASH $83.81/g

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100gs, no sample is deducted.
For the Fire Assay Transfer price, a sample of not more than 10g is deducted
A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners)
A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers

Cash available. Fidelity Gold Refinery prices will be changing daily to match the world market.

CNRG Slams $2,000 Compensation for Worker’s Death at Chinese-Owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Mine

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CNRG Slams $2,000 Compensation for Worker’s Death at Chinese-Owned Sino Africa Huijin Holdings Mine

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.

Mining Indaba 2025: Paving the Way for Africa’s Sustainable Mining Future

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Mining Indaba 2025: Paving the Way for Africa’s Sustainable Mining Future

The upcoming Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town promises to be a game-changer for Africa’s mining sector. This premier event will bring together government leaders, industry heavyweights, and key players in the mining value chain to shape a sustainable future for the continent’s mineral wealth.

By Ryan Chigoche

This year’s Ministerial Symposium, set for February 2, 2025, is exclusively by invitation and revolves around the theme “Building a Unified African Mining Value Chain: Enhancing Best Practice.” The gathering will tackle pressing challenges in Africa’s mining industry, with a focus on solutions that drive local economic growth, foster collaboration, and maximize the continent’s resource potential.

Africa’s Mining Moment

Africa sits on a treasure trove of mineral wealth, hosting over 30% of the world’s mineral reserves. From cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo powering electric vehicles to lithium in Zimbabwe and platinum in South Africa fueling clean energy technologies, the continent holds the keys to the global green energy revolution.

Yet, Africa remains largely a supplier of raw minerals, losing out on the economic advantages that come from processing and adding value locally. The Ministerial Symposium aims to flip this narrative, transforming Africa from a raw materials exporter into a leader in value addition, creating jobs, boosting industrialization, and strengthening economies.

Setting the Stage for Collaboration

The symposium will feature UN-style breakout sessions, where ministers and industry leaders can delve into the nuts and bolts of creating an efficient and sustainable mining ecosystem. Topics like streamlining permitting processes, promoting domestic mineral processing, and ensuring community benefits will take centre stage.

One key focus will be addressing bureaucratic bottlenecks. Delays in issuing mining permits have stifled investment and slowed development across the continent. By exploring more transparent and efficient regulatory frameworks, participants aim to create an environment where projects can move forward swiftly, attracting investors and unlocking Africa’s full mineral potential.

Another crucial issue is resource stewardship. African leaders are expected to discuss how to manage the continent’s mineral wealth responsibly, ensuring that mining benefits local communities and protects the environment. Striking a balance between development and sustainability will be vital to achieving long-term growth.

Unlocking Value at Home

A recurring theme of the symposium will be the need to prioritize domestic mineral processing. While countries like South Africa have made strides in beneficiation, most African nations still export the majority of their raw minerals, with up to 70% sent to Europe and Asia for processing. This means much of the value is captured outside the continent.

Some nations are already taking bold steps to reverse this trend. Zimbabwe, for example, has banned the export of unprocessed lithium, and Namibia has implemented similar measures. Ghana’s Green Minerals Policy also prohibits exporting raw minerals to stimulate local industries.

However, the road ahead isn’t without challenges. Building robust processing infrastructure and creating supportive policies are critical to reaping the benefits of these initiatives. The symposium will explore ways to attract investments in infrastructure and foster partnerships that empower local businesses in the mining sector.

Shaping Africa’s Mining Future

The Ministerial Symposium isn’t just about solving today’s problems—it’s about preparing Africa’s mining industry for the future. With demand for critical minerals skyrocketing, the continent has a unique opportunity to lead the global shift toward green energy.

By focusing on local value chains, sustainable practices, and greater economic inclusion, African nations can transform their mineral wealth into a springboard for economic prosperity. This year’s Mining Indaba provides the perfect platform for governments, industry players, and investors to align their visions and strategies.

As Ms Rushwaya, President of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation, aptly puts it: “We cannot achieve our goals alone. It’s through working together that we can overcome the challenges and create a prosperous future for Africa.”

Mining Indaba 2025 is more than an event, it’s a rallying cry for Africa to take charge of its destiny, redefine its role in global supply chains, and ensure its resources benefit future generations.

Another Man Shot by a Chinese National

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Another Man Shot by a Chinese National
A Filabusi young man aged 20, was shot by a Chinese national for allegedly stealing gold dump at Binyup 5 Mine in Filabusi on Wednesday, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
According to Zimbabwe Republic Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the Chinese national who shot Mthandazo Sibanda has since been arrested, and further investigations into the incident are underway.
Sibanda was shot with a 9mm Derya Pistol by the Chinese national while reportedly attempting to steal gold ore from the mine site on January 22, 2025.
Commissioner Nyathi confirmed the arrest of the Chinese national, stating that police are conducting an in-depth investigation into the matter.
“As investigations progress, more details will be released,” Nyathi said in a brief statement.
This incident has sparked concern in the local community, as relations between Chinese investors and Zimbabwean workers have been under scrutiny in recent years due to several similar incidents involving violence and labour disputes.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates in the coming days as they piece together what transpired at the mine.
This is a developing story, and Mining Zimbabwe will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

Gweru gun incident – Both Worker & Chinese boss to face criminal charges

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Gweru gun incident – Both Worker & Chinese boss to face criminal charges

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation following a violent altercation between a Chinese national and a Zimbabwean employee at Bijou Farm in Lower Gweru, Mining Zimbabwe reports.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

According to a press statement issued by ZRP Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, both parties involved are facing criminal charges after the dispute escalated into violence.

Nyathi stated that the incident occurred when Kholwani Dube, 38, a local worker, stabbed a Chinese national, identified as Liu Haifeng, with an okapi knife after a labour dispute. In retaliation, the Chinese national reportedly pointed a firearm at Dube.

The ZRP spokesperson confirmed that criminal charges have been filed against both individuals.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating an assault and pointing of a firearm incident,” Nyathi said.

Through their press release issued yesterday, Ming-Chang Sino-Africa Mining Investments, which owns Bijou Farm, stated that Dube had been suspended earlier in the day for “disobeying direct instructions” from his supervisors. Despite his suspension, Dube allegedly returned to the farm later in the afternoon and forcefully took the keys to an excavator, proceeding to operate the heavy machinery in a threatening manner.

The company’s statement claimed that Dube attempted to run over the farm manager, Liu Haifeng, with the excavator.

“Mr. Liu Haifeng fired a warning shot into the sky, adhering to firearm safety procedures,” the statement read. “Unfortunately, the situation escalated, and Mr. Dube stabbed Liu Haifeng in the leg before being subdued by fellow employees.”

Ming Chang Sino-Africa Mining Investments insisted that the incident was an isolated case stemming from Dube’s aggressive behaviour. They stressed that no shots were fired at Dube, contrary to circulating rumours.

However, video footage of the incident that surfaced online paints a different picture. In the video, Dube is seen shouting for his salary, which he claimed had not been paid.

The press release also failed to mention that the footage also shows Liu Haifeng pointing a gun directly at Dube’s head as he lay down restrained. Haifeng also pointed the firearm several times at his face.

Haifeng also pointed the firearm at Dube's face
Haifeng pointing the firearm at Dube’s face
Liu Haifeng pointing a gun directly at Dube's head as he lay down restrained.
Liu Haifeng pointing a gun directly at Dube’s head as he lay down restrained.

When questioned about the footage, Ming-Chang Sino-Africa Mining Investments maintained that the situation arose from Dube’s disobedience and that there was no pay dispute. A company representative stated, “His salaries are up to date, as is the case with all our employees.”

The company also defended Liu Haifeng’s actions, claiming he is “highly trained in firearm handling” and was acting in self-defence. They emphasized that the firearm was legally stored in a gun cabinet on the farm as part of their security apparatus.

In response to questions posed to the company regarding the incident, Ming-Chang Sino-Africa Mining Investments provided the following clarifications:

  • When asked why the video shows Dube demanding payment, the company reiterated that the issue was not about wages but about Dube’s disregard for instructions.
  • Concerning the legality of Liu Haifeng handling a firearm as a non-security officer, the company insisted that he is trained in firearm use and that the firearm was handled in accordance with safety protocols.
  • Regarding claims that Dube was physically harmed during the confrontation, the company acknowledged the altercation but denied that excessive force was used, stating that other employees intervened to break up the fight.

In response to allegations of misinformation in the initial press release, the company denied providing false information and accused the media of publishing inaccurate reports without verifying facts. “We urge the media to report accurately without bias,” the company said.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police have not yet concluded their investigation into the matter, and both Liu Haifeng and Kholwani Dube are currently facing charges. The case highlights the tense relationship between some Chinese investors and their Zimbabwean workforce, as incidents of labour disputes, particularly regarding wages and working conditions, continue to surface.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 23 January 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe 23 January 2025

These are the official gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today 23 January 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$83.60/g
SG ABOVE 85% BUT BELOW 90% US$82.72g
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$81.83/g
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$80.95/g
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$79.62/g

Fire Assay CASH $84.04/g

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100gs, no sample is deducted.
For the Fire Assay Transfer price, a sample of not more than 10g is deducted
A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners)
A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers

Cash available. Fidelity Gold Refinery prices will be changing daily to match the world market.

GRAPHIC VIDEO: Blood & Guns at Gweru Mine as worker clashes with Chinese bosses

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GRAPHIC VIDEO: Blood & Guns at Gweru Mine as worker clashes with Chinese bosses

Two videos, one of them very graphic, are making rounds on mining WhatsApp groups.

In the first video, a disgruntled worker at Ming Chang Sino Africa Company (MCSA), is demanding his us$600 salary. The man is seen frustratingly swinging an excavator to keep an armed Chinese man at bay. He is heard on video saying he wants his money and he wants to go to Harare.

Several men are also seen in the video among them the Chinese man armed with a pistol. The Chinese man periodically points a firearm at the worker, despite a local man gesturing him not to do so.

The man stops swinging the excavator and mentions something about the Police. He then says in Ndebele, “Abanginike imali yami ngihambe,” translated means “They must give me my money so that I leave”.

The disgruntled worker then says, “Uyabuya nombobo lo, uyafela ejele,” loosely translated he said, “He is bringing a gun, he will die in prison”.

The video ends with the camera holder saying using a gun is a criminal offence.

The last video is very graphic, showing the disgruntled worker now subdued. A pool of Blood is seen with four Chinese men tying the man’s legs and hands behind him. They use their body weight to keep the now-dominated worker to the ground.

Two Chinese men are armed with firearms with one particular one seated on top of the disgruntled worker pointing the firearm directly at the man’s head. He periodically points the gun at the man’s face shouting angrily and returning the firearm back to the the worker’s head.

In the video, the cameraman is heard asking why the Chinese were not rushing the man to the hospital.

An injured Chinese man is also observed seated a short distance from the fiasco.

This publication contacted the National Spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Assistant Commissioner Nyathi who said he would revert with a response.

Unconfirmed reports say this happened in Vungu, Silobela. Currently, Mining Zimbabwe awaits more information from the Police.

WATCH the video below

 

ZMF Strategic Meeting to Drive 2025 Mineral Optimization Targets

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ZMF Strategic Meeting to Drive 2025 Mineral Optimization Targets

The country’s largest artisanal and small-scale miners’ representative board, the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), will be hosting a strategic meeting from 09:00hrs today at Cresta Lodge to bring together key stakeholders to discuss and implement strategies aimed at boosting the country’s mineral production, with the primary goal of reaching 40 tonnes of gold in 2025, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Themed “Collaborative Strategies Towards Mineral Optimization,” the meeting will see industry leaders, government officials, and miners gather to deliberate on the best approaches to enhance production in the coming year. ZMF President Ms Henrietta Rushwaya has emphasized the importance of this meeting in charting the path to achieving the ambitious production target.

“We are targeting 40 tonnes in 2025, and we shall be convening a strategic meeting to chart the way forward,” said Rushwaya.

She added that collaborative efforts between stakeholders would be critical to reaching this goal.

Key Program and Objectives

The meeting will begin with registration at 9:00 AM, followed by the official welcome remarks from ZMF CEO Mr. Wellington Takavarasha at 10:00 AM. Ms Rushwaya will outline the workshop’s strategic objectives at 10:10 AM, setting the stage for discussions on optimizing mineral production through partnerships and innovation.

At 10:30 AM, Mr. P. Magaramombe, General Manager of Fidelity Gold Refiners, will deliver a presentation on the performance of the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in 2024. This will be followed by the keynote address at 11:00 AM by Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Honorable Winston Chitando, focusing on “Unlocking the Potential of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining in Zimbabwe.”

The meeting will conclude with a workshop summary presented by Mr. Takavarasha at 12:30 PM, followed by a networking lunch at 1:00 PM.

Collaborative Strategies to Reach 40-Tonne Target

With gold deliveries totalling 36.48 tonnes in 2024, the ZMF believes that hitting the 40-tonne mark is achievable with the right strategies and partnerships. The strategic meeting aims to address key issues affecting the ASM sector, such as access to finance, mining equipment, and the impact of government policies on production.

Ms. Rushwaya emphasized that strategic collaborations would play a critical role in this push. “We cannot achieve our goals alone. It’s through working together that we can overcome the challenges facing the sector and reach our 2025 target,” she said.

The ZMF meeting comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s mining sector is focused on sustainable growth, with both small-scale and large-scale miners contributing to the nation’s economic recovery.

As the country moves towards its 2025 production target, the meeting will serve as a crucial platform for setting the course for the mining industry’s success.

Kuvimba Board Chair Mupamhanga Declared National Hero

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Kuvimba Board Chair Mupamhanga Declared National Hero

Kuvimba Mining House (KMH) board chairman Justin Mupamhanga has been declared a National Hero following his recent passing. Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga confirmed the decision, made by President Mnangagwa, in recognition of Mupamhanga’s contributions to Zimbabwe’s independence and national development, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

In his condolence message, Acting President Chiwenga expressed deep sorrow over Mupamhanga’s death and highlighted the significant impact of his work.

“I learned with a deep sense of grief and sadness of the passing on at Arundel Clinic this morning of Justin Mupamhanga after a brave fight against diabetes and high blood pressure. In recognition of his distinguished role in the struggle for independence and in the development of our nation, especially in laying the foundations and growing the agriculture and energy sectors, His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, in consultation with the Politburo, has directed that he be accorded National Hero status,” Dr. Chiwenga said.

Mupamhanga, who served as Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s strategic sectors, including agriculture and energy. His leadership at Kuvimba Mining House was instrumental in the company’s growth and commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community impact.

According to Zanu PF political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, Mupamhanga’s work was so distinguished that his declaration as a National Hero did not require a Politburo sitting, stating that “his work speaks for itself.”

Kuvimba Mining House also released a tribute to Mupamhanga, acknowledging his leadership and dedication. The company described him as a visionary leader who inspired those around him and made a lasting contribution to the mining industry and Zimbabwe as a whole.

As the nation mourns his passing, Justin Mupamhanga’s legacy will continue to serve as an inspiration to many. His contributions to Zimbabwe’s independence, development, and the mining sector will be remembered for generations to come.

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