Kamandama disaster remembered

On the morning of 6 June 1972, 427 coal miners perished in a suspected gas mine shaft explosion in a disaster that cast a dark shadow over not only the mining town of Hwange but the entire nation and even beyond.
Miners from South Africa, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, and Costa Rica among others died at the number two mine, the worst mining disaster in Zimbabwes history. The mine was immediately sealed and every year a commemorative event is held near the site.
Hwange Colliery spokesperson, Berzil Dube, said preparations for this years commemorations are at an advanced stage.
This year we have come up with a number of events and programmes to raise funds for widows and dependents of victims of the mining disaster. We also want to help under privileged children in Hwange, said Dube.
The company has also pledged to construct as lecture room at the Lupane State University as part of this years commemorations.