Antony Chawagarira
MINE workers have welcomed the Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union’s (ZDAMWU) initiative to propose a US$650 minimum wage, seeing it as a vital step toward fairer compensation.
This proposal comes at a pivotal moment, with global mineral prices—especially for gold and lithium—reaching record highs and resulting in significant profits for mining companies.
ZDAMWU’s push for a higher minimum wage highlights the ongoing struggles of mine workers, who feel left behind as mining companies reap substantial profits. Currently, many mine workers earn between US$390 and US$400—an amount they argue is insufficient to cover basic expenses such as rent, school fees, and groceries.
During the recent National Council meeting held in Bulawayo, ZDAMWU Secretary General Justice Chinhema said, “2026 must be a turning point in the fight for fair compensation.”
His remarks come at a time when the workers are increasingly frustrated by stagnant wages despite surging industry profits.
Chinhema criticised employers—particularly those represented by the Chamber of Mines—for prioritising profits over fair compensation for workers.
“They believe in super profits,” he noted, stating that employers do not share the wealth generated by the sector with the workers who make it possible.
A worker from Renco Mine, which is owned by Rio Zim and actively engaged in gold mining, shared his thoughts on the situation.
“It’s about time we received compensation that reflects the hard work we put in daily. We see our company thriving, yet our pay doesn’t allow us to thrive as well. A US$650 minimum wage would help us provide better lives for our families,” he said.
Similarly, a worker from Bikita Minerals—which plays a major role in the lithium market—said fair wages are essential for stability and growth within the sector.
“With the current rise in mineral prices, it’s only fair that we, too, share in the profits. The US$650 push is not just a number—it’s a step toward a more sustainable future for our families and us,” said the worker.
ZDAMWU further stressed that, beyond meeting basic needs, wages should empower workers to invest in skills development and adapt to evolving mining technologies.
Chinhema pointed out that low pay levels restrict professional growth, making it harder for workers to advance in an industry that is rapidly changing.
As Zimbabwe’s mining sector continues to attract international investment, the question remains: will these growing profits translate into equitable benefits for the workers who generate them?