Zimbabwe union flags sexual abuse of women at Chinese-owned mines

Workplaces inside Chinese-owned mines are getting dragged for alleged harassment and HIV gatekeeping that could land employers in serious legal heat.

Abuse allegations in the mining sector

• Justice Chinhema of Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union sounded the alarm.
• Chinhema says female workers keep reporting sexual misconduct and body shaming.
• Women at several Chinese-run mining sites describe degrading daily treatment.
• Nicknames like small Maria and big Maria allegedly get thrown around.

HIV tests and dismissals in Inyathi

• ZDAMWU claims some applicants must show HIV results before hiring.
• The Inyathi case involves three women reportedly pushed out.
• One termination was allegedly tied directly to an HIV status.
• Union argues the sackings breach international labor standards.

Escalation to national and global bodies

• Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union has contacted the International Labour Organisation.
• Chinhema wants scrutiny from international labor institutions.
• Plans include approaching the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission.
• The Ministry of Labour is also set to receive the complaints.