Chinese-run firms in Zimbabwe under fire over human rights violations of mining workers

In Zimbabwe, Chinese-owned firms have recently come under fire for flagrant abuses of mining worker safety standards as well as human rights. According to Africa Daily, recent incident of mistreatment by Chinese mine owner has once again brought attention to abuse of locals and unethical tactics used by Chinese employers in African nation. In dition to mistreatment, Chinese investors frequently accuse local employees of ft and physically and verbally abuse m, and flagrantly violate law. 

Chinese mining activities in Odzi, according to Centre for Research and Development (CRD), a Manicaland-based organisation that governs natural resources, have been blatantly breaking law in terms of health and safety.  

A Chinese-owned gold mining firm that operates in Mutare district's Odzi peri-urban region has recently been criticised for allegedly mistreating employees and violating nation's labour laws and regulations, according to Africa Daily. It is worth mentioning that a number of gold mines are operated by Chinese business known as Odzi Resources Zimbabwe Private Limited around nation, notably at Mashava, Mbalabala, Bulawayo, Kwekwe, and Mazowe. 

In a separate instance, Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) appealed to Chinese embassy in Zimbabwe on September 19 to take action and to make sure Chinese investors abide by local laws. 

Furrmore, China has recently sponsored and given loans for several infrastructure projects throughout Africa, including new Zimbabwean parliament. Chinese investments in African nations have grown throughout time, mostly for purpose of utilising ir natural resources to meet raw material needs of ir businesses, ANI reported. However, according to Africa Daily, it gives little consideration to social and environmental effects on host countries. 

Human rights violations of Zimbabwean workers

Former worker Tatenda Chikwanha, who was recently sacked after speaking out against pervasive mistreatment, stated that Chinese employer mistreated workers at Odzi mine. He continued by saying that workers were not given protective gear, good food, or lodging while on job. According to Africa Daily, many workers were afraid of being victimised and were unable to inform authorities of issues with ir b working circumstances. 

Zimbabwe Environmental Lawyers Association (ZELA) claimed that salaries are frequently very low and frequently not paid on time. If a worker attempts to assert ir rights and demand what is fair, y risk being shot or beaten. 

Approximately 40 workers at a Chinese-owned mine in Koma's Doneni, Muzvezve region, who have gone months without receiving pay, alleged that owners treat m like slaves. According to Africa Daily, y also asserted that y were forced to labour in mine shaft without any safety gear, putting m at risk for accidents and or health problems. 

(Image: AP)