BIKITA Institute of Land and Development (Bila) yesterday condemned Bikita Minerals following the death of a worker at the lithium mine.
In a statement yesterday, Bila said they expect a thorough investigation as the accident raises questions about the company’s practices.
The employee, Nelson Musendekwa, reportedly died on the spot after being hit by a machine he and other workers were operating while mining lithium on Saturday.
This is the second accident which has claimed a life at the giant lithium mine.
“Bikita Institute of Land and Development strongly condemns any act that violates the fundamental right to life, which is sacred and protected by the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The recent incident involving the untimely death of Nelson Musendekwa at Bikita Minerals raises serious concerns about the mining company's practices and their adherence to constitutional provisions,” the statement said.
“Bikita Institute for Land and Development calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. We expect accountability and transparency from all parties involved to ensure justice is served.”
Bila spokesperson Brighton Machiridza told NewsDay yesterday that accidents at the mine were due to gross negligence.
“Besides negligence on the company’s part, workers are also being subjected to long working hours without enough rest between shifts,” he added.
Bikita Minerals spokesperson Collin Nikisi had not responded to questions sent to him at the time of going to print.