CNRG Calls for Independent Probe Into Two Deaths at Bikita Minerals

MASVINGO – The Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) has called for an immediate suspension of operations at Bikita Minerals and an independent investigation into two worker deaths reported at the lithium mining company during the weekend of 6 to 7 June 2026.

The call follows confirmation by Bikita Minerals of the death of dump truck operator Thomas Kaliveni (40), who was employed by a contractor and died following an incident at a waste dump site. The company also confirmed the separate death of a security guard employed by an independent security firm. In a statement issued on 9 June, CNRG urged authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into workplace safety conditions at the mine and determine whether any breaches of occupational health and safety standards contributed to the fatalities.

The natural resources watchdog called for an independent occupational health and safety audit covering all mining operations at Bikita Minerals, with particular focus on the Quarry and Mining Department. CNRG further proposed the establishment of a multi-agency task force comprising the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to assess compliance with workplace safety regulations.

"The reported death of another worker cannot be treated as a routine workplace incident," CNRG said. "Every fatality represents a profound human tragedy and should trigger urgent action to identify and eliminate the conditions that place workers at risk."

The organisation also said that if investigations establish that inadequate safety measures contributed to the deaths, the families of the deceased should receive fair compensation.

CNRG argued that the latest incidents raise broader concerns about workplace safety in Zimbabwe's rapidly expanding lithium mining sector.

"As Zimbabwe positions itself as a strategic player in the global lithium industry, respect for workers' rights, occupational safety, and human dignity must be non-negotiable," the organisation said. "The country's mineral wealth cannot be built on unsafe working conditions and preventable workplace deaths."

The organisation noted that these were not the first fatalities reported at Bikita Minerals since the mine was acquired by the Chinese mining group Sinomine Resource Group.

CNRG cited several incidents that it believes warrant closer scrutiny by regulators. The organisation said that in October 2023, a worker identified as Nelson Musendekwa allegedly died after being struck by heavy equipment while loading tantalite at the mine.

It also referenced a fatal incident in August 2025 involving Farai Murimoga Mutsvange, an employee of subcontractor WGB Kinsey and Company, who was reportedly struck by a dump truck in low-visibility conditions. In addition, CNRG pointed to a blasting incident in 2025 that reportedly left three children seriously injured.

Bikita Minerals, located in Masvingo Province, is one of Zimbabwe's largest lithium mining operations and plays a significant role in the country's ambitions to become a major supplier of lithium, a critical mineral used in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies. Industry experts say workplace safety standards are becoming increasingly important as global investors and international markets place greater emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance throughout mineral supply chains.

Authorities have not yet announced whether a formal independent investigation or safety audit will be conducted. Investigations into the recent deaths are ongoing.

Bikita Minerals worker deaths