The manipulation and abuse of African workers by Chinese conglomerates in Zimbabwe’s mining sector have once again come under scrutiny following the circulation of a shocking video. The footage, widely shared on social media, shows a disturbing confrontation between an escalator operator, Kholwani Dube, and managers of Ming Cheng Sino-Africa, a prominent Chinese-owned mining firm.
In the video, Dube can be seen demanding his unpaid wages while being aggressively restrained by Chinese nationals.
The situation escalates as Dube is bound with wire, and one of the managers threatens him with a pistol.
This confrontation reportedly stemmed from a labor dispute in which Dube was summarily dismissed without proper procedures or severance pay, a recurring practice among some Chinese employers in Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has expressed outrage over the incident. In a press statement, General Secretary Justice Chinhema condemned the growing trend of physical abuse and use of firearms by Chinese nationals during labor disputes.
“This incident is part of a broader pattern of abuse and exploitation in Chinese-operated mines across Zimbabwe,” Chinhema said. “Workers are subjected to poverty wages, deplorable working conditions, and intimidation, with most employed under short-term contracts devoid of basic benefits such as medical care and pensions.”
ZDAMWU highlighted systemic issues, including excessive working hours of up to 14 hours per day, lack of collective bargaining rights, and the suppression of trade union activities. These conditions, the union asserts, are fostering resentment and tension between Chinese managers and Zimbabwean workers.
A Call for Action
ZDAMWU is calling on the government to take decisive action against abusive employers and to ensure that Chinese investors adhere to local labor laws. The union also demands direct engagement with Chinese representatives, including the Chinese Embassy, to address the growing tensions and restore dignity to Zimbabwean workers.
To address these issues, ZDAMWU has proposed the establishment of an inclusive inspection committee within the National Employment Council (NEC).
The committee would be tasked with investigating cases of labor abuse, inspecting working conditions, and recommending punitive measures against violators.
“We are committed to creating an environment where workers’ rights are respected,” Chinhema said. “We will also engage Chinese nationals working in Zimbabwe to provide orientation on labor dispute resolution to foster industrial harmony.”
A Broader Issue
The incident at Ming Cheng Sino-Africa is not isolated. Similar cases of abuse have been reported across Zimbabwe, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reforms and stricter oversight of foreign investors.
ZDAMWU’s 2025 agenda aims to bridge the gap between local workers and Chinese employers, ensuring fair treatment and compliance with labor laws.
As the nation grapples with economic challenges, the exploitation of workers by foreign investors risks deepening social inequalities and undermining labor rights.
ZDAMWU’s call for action serves as a rallying cry for all stakeholders to prioritise the safety and dignity of Zimbabwean workers.