Mathew Masinge
The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a South African organisation – Tshiamiso Trust – for the compensation of ex-Wenela mine workers who might have suffered permanent impairments due to silicosis or died from any work-related TB diseases.
This follows a South Africa High Court ruling that ordered the settlement after an agreement was reached between six mining companies and claimant attorneys in the historic silicosis and TB class action.
The six companies include African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti, Harmony Gold, Sibanye Stillwater and Gold Fields.
Tshiamiso Trust was established to compensate all eligible former mine workers or their dependents.
The former mine workers from Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zambia worked in South Africa between March 1965 and December 2019.
Thousands of Zimbabwean ex-Wenela mine workers who have been waiting for compensation will be required to undergo medical assessments to determine their eligibility for the once off compensation.
Speaking at the launch of the compensation services and signing ceremony today, Tshiamiso Trust chief executive officer, Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda said his organisation is committed to reach all eligible claimants across Zimbabwe.
“The Tshiamiso Trust and NSSA are pleased to announce the official commencement of services to assist former mine workers seeking compensation for permanent lung damage due to silicosis and work-related tuberculosis contracted in the six South African gold mines.
“We have formalised cooperation between the two entities to ensure access to compensation for eligible former mine workers and their dependents.
“All ex-mine workers can now lodge their claims and complete the medical assessments required to determine their eligibility for compensation.
“This is about restoring dignity and delivering on the promise made to the men and families who built the mining industry,” said Dr Kwinda.
NSSA chief executive officer, Dr Charles Shava said they are committed to strengthening cross-border protection of Zimbabwean workers.
“Zimbabwe is home to many people who spent their working lives in South Africa’s mines and returned home with illnesses that changed their futures. Through this collaboration, we are ensuring that those who qualify can now access the compensation due to them.
“NSSA remains committed to working with regional partners to expand social security and strengthen cross-border protection for our workers,” said Dr Shava.
To lodge a claim, all ex-mine workers must have carried out risky work at one of the said gold mines between 12 March 1965 and 10 December 2019.
They must have permanent lung impairment from silicosis or TB, with the disease contracted while working at these mines.
Those who did more than five years of risky work will receive a free Benefit Medical Examination while those who did less will pay R1900 for the examination.
The money will be paid back to them if they are eligible to claim.
For deceased mine workers, evidence that they died from work-related TB or silicosis must be presented.
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