Mining accidents have been one of the most hazardous accidents claiming lives in Africa. The recent collapse of a gold mine in Zimbabwe, which killed at least 10 people and left 15 others trapped, has once again highlighted the dangers and challenges faced by thousands of mining artisans, technicians and operatives across Africa.
The accident in Zimbabwe occurred on Friday at the Bay Horse mine in Chegutu, 100km west of the capital Harare, where more than 30 people were working underground using rudimentary tools and methods. Rescue teams are still trying to reach the survivors, who might have run out of oxygen and water.
The cause of the collapse is not yet clear, but it is suspected that soil instability and outdated mining techniques might have contributed to the tragedy. Artisanal mining is a common practice in Africa, where people dig for minerals such as gold, copper, cobalt, and diamonds without proper safety measures or legal permits.
The practice not only poses serious risks to the miners and the environment, as accidents, landslides, cave-ins, and toxic leaks are frequent occurrences. Artisanal mining often fuels conflicts over access to resources, especially in areas where armed groups operate.
Zimbabwe is not the only country where mining accidents have claimed lives in recent months. In May, at least 15 people died after a landslide at a clandestine gold mine in Guinea’s Siguiri region. In June, at least 36 people were killed after a copper and cobalt mine collapsed in DR Congo’s Lualaba province.
These mining accidents are a stark reminder of mining as one of the most hazardous occupations or ventures in Africa, where many people resort to it as a means of survival amid poverty and unemployment. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), there are about 40 million artisanal miners worldwide, of whom 30% are women and children. The ILO estimates that these miners produce up to 20% of the world’s gold.
Coupled with other risks, the miners often face exploitation, abuse, and violence from middlemen, criminal networks, and corrupt officials. They often work in harsh conditions, with little or no protection from dust, noise, heat, or chemicals. They also lack access to health care, education, and social security.
The ILO has called for the formalization and regulation of the artisanal mining sector, as well as the promotion of decent work and human rights for the miners. It has also urged governments, employers, workers, and civil society to work together to improve the safety and health of the miners and their communities.
The African Union (AU) has also adopted a vision for a sustainable and inclusive mining industry in Africa, which aims to harness the continent’s mineral wealth for socio-economic development. The AU’s Agenda 2063 envisages a mining sector that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and beneficial for all stakeholders.
Whilst the urgent demand for the actualisation of such visions continues to grow, the industry will require political will, good governance, and effective enforcement of laws and standards. It also requires investment in infrastructure, technology, and skills development. Most importantly, it requires respect for the rights and dignity of the miners who risk their lives every day to provide for themselves and their families from all stakeholders.
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