Seven Miners Die After Shaft Floods in Silobela

Seven artisanal miners died in Silobela after heavy rains flooded an open shaft, raising renewed concerns over safety standards in Zimbabwe’s informal mining sector (image source)

Seven artisanal miners have died in Silobela after a shaft at Auriga 47 Mine in Nzwananzwi Village flooded following heavy rains, district officials and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed. The incident occurred on 5 November 2025 when torrential downpours forced water into the open shaft where the miners were working underground. Recovery operations, involving local rescuers, the Environmental Management Agency and the Midlands Civil Protection Unit, concluded on 7 November after a continuous 48-hour effort.

ZRP Midlands spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said all seven bodies were retrieved after extensive pumping of water from the mine. He warned that makeshift shafts remain highly vulnerable during the rainy season because many lack reinforcements and emergency escape routes. Eyewitnesses said the miners, part of a registered syndicate, had entered the mine at dawn but became trapped when tunnels rapidly filled with water. “The rain came so fast; there was no time to run,” said one community miner who assisted in rescue efforts.

Authorities said the victims’ identities will be released once their families have been notified. The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of safety standards within Zimbabwe’s informal mining sector, which employs thousands but is often poorly regulated. Local councillor Taurai Moyo said inspections would be intensified, and collaboration with small-scale miners would be strengthened to improve drainage and introduce early-warning systems during the rainy season. “This is a heartbreaking but preventable loss,” he said.

Silobela and neighbouring districts have recorded repeated incidents of flooding and shaft collapses over recent years, especially in abandoned gold claims now operated by informal groups. Environmental experts attribute the danger to poor dewatering systems, deforestation and unlined tunnels. “Without proper drainage and engineering support, water infiltration during storms is inevitable,” said mining safety consultant Eng. Blessing Marufu.

Government has deployed a multi-agency team to assess the site and recommend safety improvements. Community leaders are urging miners to suspend underground operations during severe weather and to promptly report missing colleagues to authorities.