Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Reporter
A 15-year-old boy from Bubi District in Matabeleland North Province reportedly died on Friday last week following a mine shaft collapse incident.
The boy has been identified as Mkhokheli Bhebhe and had dropped out of school.
He was buried on Wednesday, Bubi Rural District Council chief executive officer, Dr Patson Mlilo, confirmed the incident.
“I can confirm receiving the report of the death of a 15-year-old. The incident happened at a section of Ferrero Mine, which is not being used,” he said. “He had gone into mining with others but when tragedy struck his collogues had left the place. It is concerning that young boys are being lured into illegal activities due to a number of reasons.
“We ask our young people not to endanger their lives by getting into dangerous abandoned shafts. We do not wish to receive such incidences.”
A community member and neighbor, Mr Cecil Mathambo, said poverty was pushing young boys into gold panning as they hope to make quick money but risking their lives.
He said Mkhokheli came from a poverty-stricken family and did not go far with his education.
“His father is unemployed and the situation at home forced the young boy into gold panning with hope of making money to support the family.
“A number of young boys are involved in this, which is a risk to their lives. Something must be done to address the problem,” said Mr Mathambo.
He said another youth died at the same mine last year.
Bubi District is rich in gold with hundreds of youths operating there. Matabeleland North provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Glory Banda was not reachable for comment.
-@themkhust
