Govt Inspects 5,059 Workplaces Nationwide to Enforce Labour Laws, Safety Standards

In a nationwide campaign to strengthen workplace safety and enforce labour laws, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has inspected 5,059 workplaces across Zimbabwe between January and September 2025.

The inspections were conducted by the Ministry’s inspectorate division, operating under the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) Act, which oversees occupational safety and health compliance.

Of the total inspections, 217 targeted the mining sector — one of Zimbabwe’s highest-risk industries.

These inspections were carried out across all 10 provinces, with Matabeleland North recording the highest number at 76, followed by Matabeleland South with 35, and Mashonaland West with 32.

Midlands accounted for 28 inspections, while Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East recorded 18 and 17 respectively.

Masvingo had six inspections, Manicaland three, and Bulawayo two.

In addition to inspections, the Ministry held 47 meetings aimed at educating stakeholders, enforcing labour regulations, and monitoring compliance within the mining industry.

“A total of 217 workplace inspections were conducted in the mining sector from January 2025 to September 2025 in the 10 provinces while a total of 47 meetings were held to educate, enforce and monitor compliance in relation to provisions of laws governing activities in the mining industry,” the Ministry stated.

The Ministry’s broader mandate includes promoting fair labour practices, ensuring adherence to national labour laws, and safeguarding occupational safety and health (OSH) standards.

These efforts are carried out by labour officers and inspectors appointed under NSSA, a key agency under the Ministry’s oversight.

According to the Chronicle, the inspection campaign is part of a wider strategy to improve workplace accountability and reduce violations across both formal and informal sectors.

Officials say the initiative is helping to identify gaps in compliance and improve working conditions nationwide.