ZIMBA ILLEGAL MINER DIES FOLLOWING MINE COLLAPSE
A 41-year-old woman has tragically lost her life while engaging in illegal mining activities at the Awan Open-Pit Mine in Chief Simwatachela’s area of Zimba District, Southern Province. The deceased, identified as Brenda Semu Muyabi from Mulungwa Village, was reportedly digging for Aquamarine Stones when the mine wall suddenly collapsed, resulting in her untimely death.
According to Southern Division Police Commanding Officer, Auxensio Daka, Brenda was accompanied by her two young children, aged between 3 and 5 years, at the time of the incident. Witnesses say she was using a hoe to excavate stones when the ground above gave way, burying her beneath the rubble. The children, who narrowly escaped the collapse, were the first to raise the alarm by running to nearby villagers for help.
Hearing the cries of the distressed children, villagers quickly rushed to the scene and began a desperate effort to retrieve Brenda’s body from the debris. Despite their best efforts, it was too late, and she was found with multiple bruises and severe injuries, which were confirmed as the cause of death. Her body has since been transported back to her family in Sikazimina Village for burial.
Community in Shock and Grief
The tragedy has left the local community in shock, highlighting the dangers of illegal mining activities in the region. Local residents revealed that the Awan Open-Pit Mine is an abandoned site that has attracted numerous small-scale miners seeking valuable gemstones, such as Aquamarine. The site, however, is known for its unstable soil and hazardous working conditions, posing significant risks to those who venture there without proper safety measures.
This incident has reignited calls for greater regulation and safety measures within the informal mining sector. Community leaders and local authorities are urging individuals to avoid illegal mining activities and seek safer means of livelihood.
Police Investigation Underway
Southern Division Police have stated that investigations are underway, although they have not yet visited the accident scene. Commanding Officer Auxensio Daka emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough inquiry to understand the circumstances leading to the tragic accident and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He also reiterated the need for enhanced community awareness on the dangers of illegal mining and stressed the importance of strict enforcement of mining regulations to safeguard lives.
Growing Concerns Over Illegal Mining in Zambia
This incident adds to the growing list of fatalities linked to illegal mining activities in Zambia, particularly in areas known for precious and semi-precious gemstones. The lack of safety protocols, combined with the increasing demand for gemstones like Aquamarine, has led many to risk their lives in unsafe mining conditions.
Local authorities have acknowledged the challenge of curbing illegal mining and are considering measures to regulate small-scale mining operations to improve safety standards.
Support and Condolences
Community members and local leaders have expressed their heartfelt condolences to the family of Brenda Semu Muyabi, especially to her young children, who witnessed the tragic event. Efforts are being made to provide emotional support and assistance to the bereaved family during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and regulatory oversight in Zambia’s informal mining sector.
By Gabriel Josias Muuba
