The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) is mourning the loss of another worker who perished during a mine accident at Harmony’s Moab Khotsong mine in Orkney, close to Klerksdorp in the North-West Province.  According to reports received by AMCU, a fall-of-ground incident occurred at level 101 yesterday morning, trapping a mineworker who was found dead during the rescue operation that followed.

This brings the current total of mineworkers killed this year to thirty-five (35), with a total of 1084 reported injuries as at 2 August 2021.  These fall-of-ground incidents are the most common cause for accidents in the South African Mining Industry (SAMI), and this year alone a total of twelve (12) workers have paid the ultimate price due to such incidents.

“Our condolences go out to the family and loved ones of this comrade”, said AMCU President Joseph Mathunjwa.  “As AMCU, we will participate in the investigation and inquiry to follow, to determine whether there was any liability to the employer for this tragic loss”, he said.

“As we keep on saying, until the [Mine Health and Safety] Act is amended to hold the bosses accountable, workers will keep on dying unnecessarily”, Mathunjwa added.  “Most of these incidents are repeatable, meaning that it could have been avoided, but the push for production causes bosses to ignore the risks involved”, Mathunjwa concluded.

For interviews: AMCU President Joseph Mathunjwa