By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
A sudden rockfall at Elvington Mine’s Mutohwe Shaft has triggered an urgent rescue operation, with two miners confirmed dead and two others feared trapped underground, authorities said yesterday, even as government intensified safety scrutiny across mining sites in Mashonaland West.
In a statement, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution,Hon. Marian Chombo, said the accident occurred when material collapsed inside the shaft, burying nine miners.
Officials reported that five miners escaped, though one sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
Chombo said rescue teams were deployed immediately and are working under extremely difficult conditions to reach the trapped men.
She added that the situation remains critical and rescue crews are maintaining continuous efforts as they search for survivors and assess the risks posed by unstable underground conditions.
“It is with profound grief that I confirm that two miners have been found deceased, with two others still trapped under the debris. Rescue teams are working tirelessly around the clock to reach them,” Chombo said.
Government officials said emergency response efforts are being conducted jointly by rescue specialists, mine management, and community members, with authorities calling for calm as operations continue.
While investigations are now underway to determine what caused the collapse, the ministry said the disaster has renewed public concern over safety standards in Zimbabwe’s mining sector particularly in underground operations where rock stability and ventilation systems are essential for worker survival.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers in the mining sector,” Chombo said. “We cannot afford to lose lives in pursuit of our mineral wealth. Safety must never be sacrificed for productivity.”
In response to the tragedy, the government announced intensified safety inspections across mining operations in the province, including reviews of shaft engineering, emergency procedures, and compliance with mining safety regulations.
The ministry also pledged support for families affected by the tragedy, stating that assistance will be provided as rescue efforts continue and as investigators compile findings on the incident.
Authorities said the Mutohwe Shaft disaster underscores the need for stronger enforcement of safety protocols and faster response to structural warnings in mines so that workers are protected long before accidents occur.
Rescue teams are expected to continue searching until all affected miners are accounted for.
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