Seven Artisanal Miners Perish At Alfisha Steward 3 Mine In Chegutu

Seven young artisanal miners died on Monday night when a shaft collapsed at Alfisha Steward 3 Mine in Chegutu District on Monday night, after they ignored safety rules.

The shaft gave way after the miners allegedly undercut a high wall, causing tonnes of earth to cave in and bury the victims about seven metres underground.

By Tuesday afternoon, all seven bodies had been recovered and taken to Chegutu District Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations.

Four other miners who were trapped in the collapse were rescued with only minor injuries.

Speaking at the site, Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, said artisanal and small-scale miners play an important role in gold production but warned about the continuing loss of lives due to unsafe practices.

Chegutu District Mines official Blessing Mangwanda said early investigations suggest the collapse was caused by poor mining methods. Said Mangwanda:

“This incident was avoidable. The miners undercut a high wall that was not properly designed or supported, leading to the wall’s failure.

“Proper mining techniques and adherence to safety guidelines could have prevented this tragedy.”

Two of the deceased were security guards. Some victims were from Chegutu, while others came from Mhondoro District.

More: The Herald

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