Num is deeply saddened by the multiple loss of lives at Harmony Gold Mine over the weekend

Press Statement, 9 May 2022

Num is deeply saddened by the multiple loss of lives at Harmony Gold Mine over the weekend

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is deeply saddened by the fatal indident at Harmony Gold Mine where four mineworkers lost their lives on Saturday at the company's Kusasalethu operation near Carletonville.

We cannot continue with the same triggers of incidents responsible for injuries and fatalities in the mining industry. South Africa is capable of developing technology that can foretell the fall of ground, seismic events which are most notorious for mining disasters. If we care about human life, the expenses or cost towards procuring such advanced technology should not matter much.

It is quite disturbing that the poor mineworkers who are earning peanuts, continue to die like flies in the industry that careless about their sweat and blood. 

The NUM is calling on relevant authorities to speedily investigate this unfortunate incident. We also call on the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to enforce the laws and ensure that companies take full responsibilities for such incidents.

It cannot be right that workers continue to die whilst the captains of the industry are smiling all the way to the bank for fat salaries or bonuses. 

The NUM would like to convey its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and friends of the deceased workers.