Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve and Fairness Moyana
THE Hwange Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) is today hosting the 53rd annual Kamandama Mine Disaster Memorial Service, a solemn event dedicated to honour the 427 miners who lost their lives in the tragic underground explosion on 6 June 1972.
The commemorations are being held at the memorial site in Hwange and have brought together dignitaries, survivors, widows, and members of the community to reflect on the disaster and reaffirm the company’s commitment to workplace safety.
Chief Wange is the guest of honour at this year’s commemorations.
In his welcome remarks, HCCL Holdings Chief Executive Officer, Mr William Gambiza, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the miners, emphasising on the enduring impact of the tragedy.
“To us, the 427 people we lost, survived by many of us here today, their memories are not just names, but a constant reminder of the social fabric that was torn from our community. Their labour and contributions to the company are something we cannot ignore. This tragedy influenced regional and nationwide statutory regulations on fiery mines,” said Mr Gambiza.
The Kamandama disaster remains one of the worst mining accidents in Zimbabwe’s history, prompting sweeping changes in safety protocols within the mining sector.
Over the years, HCCL has implemented rigorous safety measures, including advanced gas detection systems, enhanced emergency response training, and regular safety audits to prevent a recurrence of such a catastrophe.
This year’s memorial service also featured important moments, including a minute of silence observed at 10:25 AM—the exact time the explosion occurred—and a wreath-laying ceremony led by the Guest of Honour, Chief Wange, alongside widows of the deceased miners and HCCL executives.
The HCCL Proto Team and security personnel are set to perform drills demonstrating emergency preparedness, underscoring the company’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding its workforce.
