The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has vowed to intensify its advocacy efforts in 2025 to address pressing challenges faced by mine workers across the country, with poor salaries being a primary concern.
In an end-of-year statement, ZDAMWU General Secretary Justice Chinhema outlined the union’s roadmap for 2025, themed “Year of Growth: Building Strong Structures for Sustainable Change.” The statement highlighted critical issues, including inadequate wages, unsafe working conditions, and the growing casualisation of labour.
Reflecting on the previous year, Chinhema painted a grim picture of the hardships endured by mine workers. Chief among these challenges is the issue of insufficient salaries, which have left many struggling to afford basic necessities.
“The erosion of purchasing power has rendered essential goods increasingly unaffordable, diminishing the quality of life for mine workers. This year witnessed the unjustified and continued decline in real disposable income, driven by low nominal wages, inflation, and an onerous tax regime,” Chinhema said.
He further noted that the devaluation of the Zimbabwean dollar had deepened the financial distress of workers, plunging many into economic despair.
In addition to wage concerns, the widespread casualisation of labour has become a significant issue in the mining sector. Chinhema revealed that over 1 000 workers in the lithium mining industry alone lost their jobs due to short-term contracts that deprive employees of job security and benefits.
“Workers are subjected to short fixed-term contracts, which foster job insecurity and deter them from joining trade unions or participating in union activities for fear of victimisation. This trend threatens to undermine workers’ collective power,” he said.
Delayed salary payments and hazardous working conditions also remain major concerns. Some companies have failed to meet their financial obligations, leaving families in dire straits. Additionally, the lack of adequate personal protective equipment has exposed workers to unnecessary risks.
“Mine workers deserve to return home safely at the end of each day. Employers must be held accountable for enforcing safety compliance and ensuring workers’ well-being,” Chinhema stressed.
Looking ahead, ZDAMWU has pledged to intensify its efforts to secure fair wages, job security, and safer working environments for mine workers.
ZDAMWU also plans to engage Parliament to push for laws that criminalise non-compliance with safety regulations and promote fair labour practices.
“We will advocate for efficient health and safety policies, align collective bargaining agreements with the Labour Amendment Act, and review outdated regulations governing the sector,” Chinhema said.
Chinhema called for unity among workers and collaboration with progressive unions to present a united front during negotiations with employers.
“The fragmentation caused by the existence of multiple unions in the industry has complicated our fight for workers’ rights. We will engage with other unions to foster unity and solidarity,” he said.
ZDAMWU also aims to eliminate corruption within union leadership, with Chinhema pledging to expose individuals exploiting workers for personal gain.
Despite the challenges, Chinhema acknowledged the opportunities created by increased investments in mining operations.
“Our union is committed to ensuring that no mine and no mine worker is left behind as we work to transform lives and improve conditions in the sector,” he said.
ZDAMWU’s 2025 agenda includes expanding its membership base, leveraging technology for mobilisation, and strengthening its influence at local and global levels. Chinhema described the year ahead as a pivotal moment for the union.
“The coming year marks a turning point for the union as we strive for total control of the industry and aim to become the union of choice for mine workers. We are a confident trade union, ready to implement transformative interventions across all levels of the labour market,” Chinhema concluded.
