Mining operations resume at Redwing Mine
In a significant turn of events, operations at Redwing Mine have recommenced, marking the end of a two-month hiatus prompted by a cave-in incident in early January that trapped 15 miners.
The reopening follows a temporary shutdown mandated by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to scrutinize safety practices at the gold-producing mine, emphasizing the paramount importance of ensuring the workforce’s well-being.
Redwing Mine is a wholly owned subsidiary of the embattled Metallon Corporation which was once the biggest gold producer in Zimbabwe.
Redwing is located on land leased to Betterbrands, a company owned by prominent businessman Scott Sakupwanya. Betterbrands has faced scrutiny over the safety protocols at the mine. Although not directly engaged in the mining activities, Better Brands facilitates artisanal miners sponsored by contracted individuals. This distinctive operational model has stirred discussions about the efficacy of safety measures throughout the mining supply chain.
An employee from Betterbrands confirmed the resumption of operations, stating, “We have resumed operations after the Ministry (of Mines and Mining Development) gave us the green light.” While this signals a step forward, lingering concerns persist regarding the adequacy of safety enhancements implemented by contractors to prevent a recurrence of the cave-in incident.
ASM are well known for pillar robbing a reckless practice of destroying underground supports to access visible gold which ends up having the ground collapsing trapping and killing those underground.
Metalon is currently operating How Mine at full capacity whilst the rest of its mines are being leased to smaller operators who sometimes neglect safety protocols, leading to fatal accidents.
Metalon owns Mazoe Mine, How mine, and Redwing.
Herald