Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
THE National Social Security Authority will on Wednesday sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the South African-based Tshiamiso Trust, setting the stage for medical examinations for ex-Wenela workers.
The signing of the MoU was confirmed by the Director for Labour in the Ministry of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare Mr Clemence Vusani in his presentation at the ongoing Ministry strategic planning workshop.
“NSSA will be signing the MoU with Tshiamiso Trust tomorrow. Those with relatives who are suffering from diseases acquired while working in Wenela will be advised where to take them for testing. All the information will be shared through various media outlets,” said Mr Vusani.
The agreement will provide the legal framework for the trust to manage claims, conduct medical assessments and disburse payments to eligible former mineworkers and their dependants, ensuring a smooth and transparent rollout of the compensation process.
At least 1 000 Zimbabweans who worked in South African gold mines from the 1960s to the 1980s under the Witwatersrand Native Labour Association (Wenela) are set to benefit from the compensation scheme for silicosis and tuberculosis contracted while on duty.
Eligible workers will receive payments ranging from R10 000 to R500 000 per individual, depending on the severity of the illness and terms of the settlement
The payout covers those who worked for mining giants such as Anglo American, Gold Fields, Harmony Gold, Sibanye-Stillwater and others between March 12, 1965 and December 10, 2019.
Tshiamiso Trust was formed in 2020 after a historic class action victory in South Africa’s High Court. The trust has already paid over R1 billion to more than 11 000 claimants from countries like Malawi, and now Zimbabwe’s turn has come.
For many former miners and their families, tomorrow’s signing could finally mean justice, dignity and long-awaited relief.
