By Tendai Chisiri
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) and the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) have condemned the alleged assault of workers at Zambezi Gas Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd in Hwange by suspected state security agents.
According to the joint press statement issued on 28 May 2026, several workers were physically assaulted on the night of 27 May after company management accused them of siphoning diesel from machinery. Instead of reporting the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, management reportedly summoned state security agents who subjected workers to violent beatings and intimidation.
At least two security guards sustained serious injuries, while several drivers were also assaulted. The groups say this is not the first reported incident, citing a previous case where a worker suffered a broken leg following a similar crackdown last year.
ZDAMWU and CNRG described the developments as “deeply disturbing” and said they point to “an emerging culture of fear, intimidation, and abuse within the company”.
The organisations also raised broader concerns about working and living conditions at Zambezi Gas, a wholly owned Zimbabwe entity. Workers cited inadequate sanitation facilities, lack of clean drinking water, poor occupational safety standards, and inadequate personal protective equipment. They further alleged that low-grade workers are denied access to decent accommodation and hygienic facilities while senior employees enjoy better conditions.
ZDAMWU and CNRG are calling for:
- An immediate independent investigation into the assaults.
- Urgent medical assistance and protection for injured workers.
- An end to intimidation, violence, and reprisals against employees.
- Immediate improvements in workplace safety, sanitation, accommodation, and access to clean water.
- Full compliance with Zimbabwe’s labour, health, immigration, and environmental laws.
The groups also urged the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, NSSA, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, and relevant parliamentary committees to investigate conditions at Zambezi Gas and ensure accountability.
“Zimbabwe’s workers are not slaves. No corporate entity should be allowed to operate above the law or violate the dignity, safety, and rights of workers and communities,” the statement reads.
ZDAMWU can be contacted at 024-42254056 / 0778565949 or gs@zdamwu.co.zw. CNRG can be reached at info@cnrgzim.org or +263 786 913 423.
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