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Government has urged mining companies to comply with regulatory requirements and ensure accurate reporting of production figures to reflect Zambia’s true copper output.
During his tour of mines in Kasempa District of North-Western Province, Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, expressed concern that underreporting by some operators may be masking the country’s actual copper production.
According to a statement issued in Lusaka by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer, Shamwinda Tembo, Dr. Kabeta directed the Mine Safety Department to strictly enforce penalties against non-compliant companies and strengthen oversight of safety regulations.
He also raised concern over the continued practice of housing mine workers in hostels within mining areas—an outdated and unsafe arrangement that contravenes regulations prohibiting residential construction in such zones.
Kabeta noted with particular concern that one company had accommodated more than 600 employees in hostels inside a mining area, describing the practice as demeaning and disruptive to family life.
“The practice of housing workers in hostels is unacceptable. Mining companies must invest in permanent housing and partner with private developers to create sustainable townships with schools, clinics, and other amenities,” he emphasized.
He further directed non-compliant firms to work with local councils to acquire land for the development of decent housing, health facilities, and social services that would outlive the lifespan of the mines.
Additionally, Kabeta encouraged mining firms to facilitate homeownership for employees on favorable terms, to ensure lasting benefits for workers and communities even after mine closures.
Meanwhile, Katokamema Mines Chief Operations Officer, Busiku Keembe, disclosed that the company had invested $50 million and produced 14,000 tonnes of copper ore in its first two months of operation.
“The mine has also allocated 15 percent of its shares to local chiefs and the community as part of its commitment to shared prosperity,” Keembe said.
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