SYDNEY MUBAIWA
MVUMA-Dinson Iron and Steel Company’s workers in Manhize have staged a demonstration against alleged substandard food being supplied by the plant’s canteen operator, Hotplate Grill, subcontracted by the company.
In an interview with The Midweek Watch, employees claimed that they have been served spoiled, unhealthy meals, leading to widespread stomach illnesses.
“Nothing good is coming out of the steel plant; we live like animals. Sewage overflows at the plant because of blocked plumping.
“The sewage overflow is next to the kitchen where food for workers is prepared. We are not allowed to cook our own food. The food we are given by the mining company is badly prepared. The food looks disgusting and a big number of workers are complaining of stomach pains – we eat because we will be hungry but it’s not fair at all,” said one employee who requested for anonymity for fear of reprisals.
Contacted for a comment DISCO public relations officer, Joseph Shoko confirmed having received the complaints from the workers.
“Yes it’s true, we have received those complaints from our employees. Most of them are complaining of having been served substandard meals from our kitchen.
“We subcontracted a company to cater for our employees in terms of food. After receiving such reports, we engaged the company and we are going to hold a meeting so that we address the concerns raised by workers,” he said.
More than 800 workers are employed at the plant, with most of them living on the site.
Workers alleged that the company is sourcing cheap, unhealthy meat from nearby communities, putting workers’ health at risk.
On full operational, the DISCO’s Manhize plant is projected by government as Africa’s largest steel producer.
