In a significant development aimed at improving health and safety within the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector, Discovery Ambulances is set to enter into a joint venture agreement with the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
The official signing ceremony for the partnership will take place at 10:00hrs, Friday 31 December 2025 at 17 Princess Drive, Newlands in Harare, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the collaboration between these two entities.
The partnership will focus on providing critical emergency services and medical care to miners, with the initial project launching in Mberengwa.
This move comes as a direct response to the need for improved health and safety standards in Zimbabwe’s mining industry, particularly among small-scale and artisanal miners who often work in environments with limited access to emergency healthcare services.
ZMF President Ms Henrietta Rushwaya confirmed the signing of the joint venture, emphasizing the importance of strengthening health and safety frameworks in mining operations. The joint venture is expected to ensure that miners in remote areas can quickly access emergency medical services, a key factor in reducing fatalities and severe injuries in the sector.
Commenting on the development of ZMF SPV, FS Mining, acting CEO Edmore Chitsungo said
“As part of our sustainable mining agenda, we need to ensure that our sector is able to : (1) Give basic assistance in the event of an accident at work. (2) Minimize the risk of death as a result of high blood pressure which usually goes unnoticed and unchecked. (3) Screen STI patients and provide them with medication to minimize further spread,” Chitsungo said.
The introduction of Discovery Ambulances will not only enhance emergency response capabilities but also promote the overall well-being of miners, ensuring they can work in safer environments with the reassurance of medical assistance in case of accidents or emergencies.
Key stakeholders from the mining sector, government officials, and representatives from both Discovery Ambulances and ZMF are expected to attend.