Scoop Reporter
THE Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has appealed to Government to find an urgent solution to challenges facing Konkola and Mopani Copper mines.
Union President Joseph Chewe says Government should quickly end the impasse at the two sleeping giants on Copperbelt to revive the province.
Mr. Chewe has told The Scoop in an interview that Government should quickly attend to challenges at the two mines and that the Union expected Government to have resolved issues at Mopani Copper mine quickly because issues at the mine are not as complicated as KCM.
“We hoped that challenges at Mopani Copper Mine will be resolved quickly compared to KCM. There is need to treat the root cause of challenges contractors are facing and resolving issues at the two mines will address challenges suppliers and contractors are facing,” Mr. Chewe said.
He said the survival of contractors and suppliers on the Copperbelt has been negatively affected by the challenges that the two mines are facing, adding that Government and mining companies should find amicable ways to ensure that the assets are unlocked and allowed to operate freely.
Last week, over 10 contractors representing a work force of over 3000 withdrew labour from Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines on the Copperbelt due to non- payment.
Konkola Copper Mine is facing serious challenges following the PF Government’s decision to liquidate the company from mining giant Vendetta Minerals in 2019.
The decision has resulted in protracted legal battles in the courts of law but after the UPND formed Government, there has been dialogue involving the Government and mining giant to find amicable ways to resolve challenges the mine is facing.
This needs to be attended as soon as possible.