For Immediate Release
Harare, May 28, 2026
The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU), together with the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), strongly condemns the brutal assault of workers at Zambezi Gas Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd in Hwange by suspected state security agents on the night of 27 May 2026.
According to reports received by our organisations, several workers were physically assaulted after company management allegedly accused them of siphoning diesel from machinery at coal mining and coalbed methane exploration company. Instead of reporting the matter through lawful channels to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, management reportedly summoned state security agents who subjected workers to violent beatings and intimidation.
At least two security guards reportedly sustained serious injuries during the assault, while several drivers were also assaulted. This is not the first reported incident of violence at the company, as previous reports indicate another worker (name supplied) suffered a broken leg following a similar crackdown last year.
These developments are deeply disturbing and point to an emerging culture of fear, intimidation, and abuse within the company. Workers should never be subjected to violence, torture, or degrading treatment under any circumstances. Allegations of misconduct must be handled through proper legal and labour procedures that respect the rule of law and human rights.
ZDAMWU and CNRG are equally alarmed by broader allegations raised by workers regarding poor working and living conditions at Zambezi Gas, a wholly owned Zimbabwe entity. Workers have cited inadequate sanitation facilities, lack of clean drinking water, poor occupational safety standards, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Reports that low grade workers are denied access to decent accommodation, hygienic facilities, and equal opportunities while senior employees enjoy better conditions raise serious concerns about labour exploitation and workplace discrimination.
The allegations further suggest possible irregularities in employment practices, including concerns over unfair labour practices.
As organisations committed to labour justice, human rights, and responsible natural resource governance, we call for:
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- An immediate independent investigation into the assault of workers at Zambezi Gas Zimbabwe(Pvt) Ltd;
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- Urgent medical assistance and protection for injured workers;
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- An end to intimidation, violence, and reprisals against employees;
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- Immediate improvements in workplace safety, sanitation, accommodation, and access to cleanwater;
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- Full compliance with Zimbabwe’s labour, health, immigration, and environmental laws;
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- Protection of workers’ rights to freely associate and join unions of their choice withoutinterference from employers.
ZDAMWU and CNRG note with concern allegations that management recently facilitated the introduction of a union allegedly imposed on workers in an attempt to weaken genuine worker representation. If proven true, such actions constitute a serious attack on freedom of association and collective bargaining rights.
A union must exist to defend workers, not to shield abusive employers. Any organisation that sides with exploitation and intimidation betrays the very workers it claims to represent.
We therefore urge the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, and relevant parliamentary portfolio committees to urgently investigate conditions at Zambezi Gas and ensure accountability.
Zimbabwe’s workers are not slaves. No corporate entity should be allowed to operate above the law or violate the dignity, safety, and rights of workers and communities.
ZDAMWU and CNRG remain committed to defending workers’ rights, promoting safe and dignified working conditions, and ensuring that Zimbabwe’s natural resources benefit citizens without exploitation and abuse.
Released By:
Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU)
Phone: 024-42254056 / 0778565949
Email: gs@zdamwu.co.zw
Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG)
Email: info@cnrgzim.org
Cell: +263 786 913 423
Twitter: @CNRG_ZIM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnrgzim
Website: https://cnrgzim.org/