Thirty-year-old Andrias Chimhiti from Zimbabwe is grateful to have survived the devastating fire that claimed the lives of seven of his companions at the Daggafontein Mine Dump.
On August 26, during Operation Vala Umgodi, police intercepted over 50 miners, resulting in a tragic incident where seven miners succumbed to burn injuries, while others are still recovering.
The situation escalated when a fire, allegedly ignited by law enforcement, swept through the reeds near the Blesbok River, a known escape route for zama zamas in the area.
Chimhiti managed to escape by swimming through a swamp, a decision he says ultimately saved his life.
On the day of the fire, Chimhiti thought he would not make it.
“The flames were so intense I truly believed I was going to die. I felt like giving in when I could feel the heat on my body,” he recalled.
Chimhiti says he swam through the blazing reeds, which prevented severe burns on his lower body, and despite suffering burn wounds, he remains thankful for his survival.
“The fire was too overwhelming for anyone to survive,” he said.
Chimhiti was admitted for 15 days at the Far East Rand Hospital for treatment. He expressed uncertainty about his future following the repercussions of the fire.
“I don’t have a plan anymore. I have no means of earning an income. I don’t know where to start now.”
He says he arrived in Springs in 2022, seeking a better life as a zama zama. He lives with his wife and their child at the Kwasa informal settlement.
He says he chose Springs based on a relative’s promise of improved opportunities compared to his previous job as a gardener.
“I was promised a better life two years ago. Since coming here, I was able to build a four-room house in Zimbabwe, but after this ordeal, I won’t be able to provide for my family anymore. I thought my life would be better.”
He adds that he earned between R12 000 and R15 000 a month, depending on how much he worked, enough to sustain him and his family back home.
“I supported my wife and child like any other parent, but now that has all stopped. Even though I had saved some money, I have since depleted my savings due to the ups and downs of frequent hospital visits.”
Despite his injuries, Chimhiti remains hopeful.
“My hands and legs are fine, and I’m grateful I can still work, even if I won’t go back to illegal mining.”
He said he plans to return home once he fully recovers.
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