Mineworkers union tells miners to resist unsafe work environments after two workers die at Mopani

The Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has urged miners to prioritise their personal safety to avoid mine accidents.

MUZ Coordinator and Public Relations Officer, Michael Kaluba said in a statement issued on Wednesday said MUZ would stand firmly behind any worker who refuses to undertake a task deemed unsafe in the wake of a mine accident at Mopani Copper Mine (MCM) that has claimed the lives of two contract miners.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, around 17:45 hours at the South Ore Body (SOB), 3,760 Feet Level, 1,000 Cross Cut.

“To our fellow miners, we want to be very clear: if the working environment is not safe, do not proceed with the task. The union will fully support any worker who declines to perform duties due to genuine safety concerns,” he said.

Kaluba called for an urgent review and strengthening of safety systems in all mining operations following a fatal accident that claimed the lives of two contractor employees at Mopani Copper Mines.

He said the accident highlighted the urgent need for mining companies to reinforce safety compliance.

“We wish to strongly challenge all mining firms, especially Reliant Mining at Mopani, to thoroughly check their safety procedures and adhere to the highest safety standards required by law and industry best practice,” Kaluba said.

He expressed concern that the incident had occurred barely two weeks into the new year, stressing that it should serve as a wake-up call for the industry.

“It is unfortunate that this accident happened so early in 2026, at a time when families were expecting to see their loved ones return home safely after work. This should serve as a wake-up call to the entire mining industry to tighten safety protocols and procedures,” Kaluba said.

He added that the loss of the two miners was tragic and deeply painful for the mining community.

“MUZ is deeply saddened by the loss of two of our colleagues in such tragic circumstances.”

Investigations into the cause of the accident are expected to be carried out by relevant authorities and safety teams.

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