Murowa Diamonds Workers Remain on Strike Despite P...

Murowa Diamonds Workers Remain on Strike Despite Partial Salary Payment

Witness Runodada Zim Now reporter

On the third day of a growing strike, Murowa Diamonds attempted to ease tensions by offering workers only 35% of their March 25 salaries, a move that has done little to quell the ongoing industrial action.

According to an inside source who spoke to ZimNow, the company informed employees that only a portion of their March pay would be disbursed.

“They are giving people 35% of the March 25 salaries,” the source said.

However, workers have vowed to continue downing tools until they receive all four months of outstanding salaries in full. Despite receiving the partial payment, employees have made it clear they will not return to work until all arrears are cleared.

“Employees will take the money, but only resume production once four months' salaries are paid,” the source added.

On the same day, Murowa Diamonds held a meeting that brought together workers’ representatives from various companies, alleged CID Minerals agents, individuals identified as military intelligence, and internal employee representatives. According to attendees, the identities of the so-called agents raised concerns, as they neither introduced themselves nor provided official verification of their roles.

“Workers were doubtful of these so-called CID Minerals agents and military intelligence officials because they couldn’t even reveal themselves or introduce who they were. We were only told they were agents,” the source revealed.

During the meeting, these unnamed agents acknowledged the seriousness of the salary delays but claimed they had no authority to enforce payments. They instead advised workers against engaging in violence or aggressive actions, warning that such behavior could worsen the situation.

Meanwhile, speculation continues over a reported $20 million sponsorship linked to RioZim, the holding company with a 22% stake in Murowa Diamonds. The source clarified that the funding is earmarked for RioZim’s gold operations and will not benefit Murowa Diamonds directly.

“That money only affects the holding company, which has 22% in Murowa. It will not translate to money for Murowa Diamonds, but to the gold entities,” the source said.

As tensions remain high, Murowa Diamonds faces growing pressure to resolve the salary crisis that has now ground production to a halt. Workers insist that only the full settlement of all outstanding wages will bring them back to work.