28 November 2023

The Congress of South African Trade Unions(COSATU) in the North West province has learned with deep sadness about the death of eleven mine workers.

It is alleged that the workers died after the cable of the mine lift, which was hoisting them snapped, costing the lives of innocent workers.

As COSATU, we believe that there is an act of negligence and compromise to adherence to health and safety regulations at that workplace. The safety of mineworkers continues to be placed in unacceptably precarious conditions at the hands of greedy employers. Our affiliate, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), has been at the forefront of pleas concerning compliance. Since the start of 2023 alone, it recorded at least 40 underground mine deaths.

The Federation calls for an immediate investigation into the cause of the accident.  Those who might be found guilty of negligence must face the full might of the law.

We further call on the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) to disperse a team of expects to guarantee sure that the investigation on the matter is not compromised.

COSATU sends a message of condolences to the families of the bereaved and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. It is crucial that families who have lost loved ones in the incident are provided with immediate social support during this difficult time.

Issued by COSATU North West

For more information, please contact:

Kopano Konopi(Provincial Secretary)
Cell: 082 339 5836