Two Contractor Employees Die in Separate Incidents at Bikita Minerals

BIKITA, Zimbabwe – Bikita Minerals (Private) Limited has confirmed the deaths of two employees working for independent contractors at its mining operations in separate incidents over the weekend. The lithium mining company said one employee died following a workplace accident, while another was found unresponsive while on duty in an unrelated incident.

In a statement released by management, the company expressed condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and said investigations into both incidents were underway. The first incident involved Thomas Kaliveni, 40, a dump truck operator employed by contracting firm WGB Kinsey & Company.

According to Bikita Minerals, Kaliveni sustained fatal injuries in an accident at the mine's waste dump site on 6 June 2026 at approximately 7:45 pm.

"The company regrets to advise of the unfortunate passing of Mr Thomas Kaliveni, a dump truck operator employed by WGB Kinsey & Company, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident at the waste dump site," the statement said.

Mine management did not immediately disclose the circumstances surrounding the accident, citing ongoing investigations.

In a separate and unrelated incident, a security guard employed by Rebnek Security was found dead while on duty during the early hours of 7 June 2026. The company said the employee was discovered by a supervisor conducting routine inspections.

"A supervisor carrying out routine inspections found the employee unresponsive while on duty," management said.

The cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Bikita Minerals said law enforcement authorities were investigating both incidents and that additional details would be released only when appropriate.

"Out of respect for the families involved and ongoing police investigations, no further information will be provided at this stage," the company said.

The deaths have renewed focus on workplace safety within Zimbabwe's mining sector, one of the country's most important industries and a major contributor to export earnings.

Mining operations, particularly those involving heavy machinery and large-scale earthmoving equipment, remain among the highest-risk work environments globally. Industry experts have consistently highlighted the importance of strict safety protocols, continuous training, and regular equipment inspections to minimise occupational accidents. Bikita Minerals, one of Zimbabwe's largest lithium producers, said the safety, health, and well-being of everyone working at its operations remains a core priority.

"The safety, health, and well-being of everyone working at our operations remain a core priority," the company said.

The company extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pledged its support during the difficult period. Police investigations into both incidents are continuing.

Bikita Minerals deaths