Training of Artisanal gold miners in occupational safety

This project came about as a free , non funded training for smale scale and artisanal gold miners all over Zimbabwe following recorded fatalities from silicosis and fatal mine incidents and accidents which are both preventable. The pilot training was done in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province on 5-7th August with a turn out of over 50 small scale miners coming from Gwanda, Matopos, Inyathi and Bubi. This training became a train the trainer initiative because many of the front line mine workers are unable to take time off to travel for training. However it is our vision that with time and funding we can increase our outreach to reach miners at their point of need. Silicosis is an occupational health disease and highly preventable, but currently presenting over short exposure periods in the younger population of artisanal miners. In addition not prioritising investment in occupational safety has resulted in mine collapse, low to non emergency prepardness and response plans and many young miners die in shafts as a result of this lack of investmment in basic safety requirements. 

The participants learned a lot from the facilitators, in turn we learened a lot from the participants perspectives and have tweaked our materials to incorporate role plays and focused information relating to their current experiences. We are excited to take th enext training to Manicaland where the Young Miners Foundation Mutare chapter will host us. Providign this training for free ensures we do not exclude those who have less personal funds to participate.