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Government takeover of Shabanie Mashava Mines
Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU)
September 07, 2004

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) is worried about the takeover by government of the Shabanie Mashaba Mines (SMM) holdings owned by businessmen Mutuma Mawere

Ever since allegations of externalization of foreign currency against Mawere surfaced, there has been a lot of apprehension over the position of the mines hence it has been a cause for concern for the ZCTU, especially the welfare of the workers.

This takeover should not just be for the sake of taking over to punish Mutuma Mawere for whatever he is alleged to have done, but the government should guard against combative people who will take this opportunity to expand their empires, especially politicians.

The life of more than 10 000 workers is at stake here and government should ensure that the company is run viably so that the jobs of these workers are secured.

Also, given that there is an international campaign for the banning of the use of asbestos, it needs to be seen as to whether or not those who are taking over will be able to market the product against a hostile international campaign to ban the product.

More often than not it has been proven that most companies taken over by the government have been run down and this move has a potential of scaring away international investors as it will be seen as nationalization of private companies

The ZCTU therefore urges the government to be very cautious in its proposed takeover as any finger sticking in the company and its assets would result in the collapse of one of the biggest employers, which will further put more workers on the streets.

Wellington Chibebe
Secretary General

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