An Evaluation of progress towards sustainable development goal 8 in Zimbabwe's mining sector: insights from Shamva Mine.

Abstract

This study evaluates the progress of Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector toward United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8. Using Shamva Mine, a gold mine in Mashonaland Central, as an empirical case, the research examines impediments to Vision 2030, sustainability of the current mining practices implored so as to develop practical strategies aimed to attain the goals of Vision 2030. The study adopted a mixed sequential dominant status design. Primary data was gathered from the seven departments using stratified random sampling. Questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 80 employees and also semi-structured interviews with key the informants. Analysis of quantitative data was done via SPSS (version 27) with the qualitative data through thematic analysis. The study also revealed that power cuts, water supply, aging equipment, limited trainings are some of the key challenges affecting Shamva in terms of achieving SDG 8 towards Vision 2030. Study results indicated that significant number of participants disagreed (63.7%) that current mining practices provide safe and healthy working conditions. It was also revealed that there are inadequate opportunities for skills development and career progression. Approximately 64.3% of the participants disagreed that employment practices promote job security and long-term economic stability for workers. Results indicated that most of the participants agreed (76%) that, strengthening OHS systems like training, regular inspection helps to reduce work related accidents and illnesses. Results showed that majority 71.7% of the participants agreed that formalising contract work is a feasible solution to improve job security. The study recommends underground water harvesting as well as establishment of alternative industrial water sources such as the Acardia dam. There is need for establishment of a solar farm to mitigate energy challenges and also adoption of cleaner energy.