Health and Environment
Kwekwe Central legislator, Judith Tobaiwa, has raised a grave alarm in parliament over a surge in silicosis-related deaths in her constituency, alleging that at least 10 miners are dying from the disease every month and pointing fingers at Chinese-owned mining companies for failing to provide basic safety equipment.
Silicosis, an incurable and often fatal lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, is rampant among artisanal and small-scale miners. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s miners are living with the condition, which severely increases their susceptibility to tuberculosis and respiratory failure.
The opposition MP delivered a stark account to lawmakers last Thursday, highlighting the devastating human cost of the health crisis.
“This is happening across the country, but I have witnessed death in my constituency,” Tobaiwa stated.
“Hospital authorities are confirming that about 10 people die from silicosis every month. Just two days ago we lost five people to the disease.”
Tobaiwa directly accused certain mining operations of negligent practices that are costing lives.
“Young people are being exposed to health hazards, particularly silicosis. The majority of the mining companies, especially those run by Chinese nationals, are not providing employees with adequate protective safety wear, and their workers end up contracting silicosis,” she charged.
The MP called for immediate government intervention, urging the Minister of Mines to address parliament and outline concrete measures to enforce safer working conditions in the mining sector.
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