Govt to meet mine owners over job losses in mining sector

Labour Minister Fackson Shamenda

Labour Minister Fackson Shamenda has disclosed that government is expected to meet all the mining owners on the Copperbelt next week to discuss issues affecting their operations.

Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) Spokesperson Shapi Shachinda disclosed yesterday that the mining firm has placed 148 employees at its Nchanga underground mine on forced leave with immediate effect owing to the operational problems that the mining firm is facing.

But Mr. Shamenda has told QFM News via telephone that government will meet all the mining companies to discuss all their challenges in order to safeguard the jobs for miners.

Mr. Shamenda says the government ministries that will be part of the meeting include the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry and his ministry.

He says government will continue to engage the mining companies to find solutions to the challenges they face during their operations.

Mr. Shamenda says he will be traveling to meet the mines and see how their challenges can be resolved.

Mr. Shamenda says government remains committed to ensure that jobs for mine workers are protected.