MINE WORKER UNION CALLS FOR LAW TO COMPEL MINING INVESTORS TOWARDS VALUE ADDITION

By Michael Kaluba

The National Union of Miners and Allied Workers-NUMAW- is calling on government to enact a law that will compel investors in the mining sector to prioritize value addition as the country begins to work towards 3 million tons annual copper production.

NUMAW National Treasurer Saul Simujika says value addition remains a pipeline dream in Zambia with the decision left at the convenience of investors as opposed to having deliberate oversight regulation and has suggested that government considers making the law on value addition as part of the mines and minerals act that is currently under review.

Mr. Simujika is however elated that some mining companies in

north western province especially, have already showed signs of new investments by pledging to pump in more money into their assets but argues that this investment must be supported by retention of workers.

He explains that local value addition to Zambia’s minerals, the envisaged improved annual copper production and more investments into the sector, will all result in more jobs and revenue for the government hence the need to make the decision through legislation.

Mr. Simujika adds that for Zambia to achieve its increased productivity dream for the mining sector, conditions of service for mine workers must also improve to motivate the workforce to push this agenda.

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