The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has accused the government of compromising national sovereignty by allowing Chinese investors to operate with impunity while violating workers’ rights in several industries.
Data from the United Nations COMTRADE database shows Zimbabwe exported minerals worth US$221.03 million to China in 2024. Yet, communities around mining sites report a grim reality—wages far below standards, hazardous conditions, and cases of violence and mistreatment at the hands of employers.
In his maiden address, newly elected ZCTU Secretary General Tirivanhu Marimo highlighted Sino-Bikita Minerals as an example of widespread labour abuses within Chinese-owned mining operations.
“As organised labour, we are deeply disturbed by the rising cases of rights violations in Chinese-operated mines, particularly at Sino-Bikita Lithium. Workers have been subjected to intimidation, beatings, and degrading treatment by both foreign managers and their local collaborators. Such behaviour is not only inhumane but also blatantly unlawful,” Marimo said.
Marimo, a practising lawyer, underscored that these practices breach Zimbabwe’s Constitution—specifically Sections 51, 53, and 65, which safeguard human dignity, protect against degrading treatment, and guarantee safe labour standards. He added that Section 4A of the Labour Act [Chapter 28:01] explicitly prohibits forced labour, workplace violence, and unsafe conditions.
He further argued that these violations also contravene International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions and demanded urgent state action.
“The ZCTU calls for thorough investigations and the prosecution of all perpetrators, whether foreign or local. The Ministry of Labour and NSSA must conduct immediate inspections and enforce compliance with occupational safety and dignity standards,” he said.
Marimo urged authorities to revoke the mining licences of companies found guilty of systematic abuse until they align with Zimbabwean labour laws. He also called for full compensation and medical support for affected workers.
To address the problem more broadly, Marimo pushed for a tripartite platform to establish binding, enforceable standards in the mining industry.
“The rising reports of abuse in Chinese-run mines go beyond labour violations; they undermine Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and show disregard for human rights and the rule of law.
“If government’s ‘Zimbabwe is Open for Business’ policy is to be credible, it cannot be used to justify modern-day slavery, where foreign capital is linked to exploitation, violence, and impunity,” he added.
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