LOCAL MINE SUPPLIERS AND CONTRACTORS LOSING UP TO 50 PERCENT OF THEIR BUSINESS

By Michael Kaluba

Lack of expansion projects, limited spending and stalled production at both Mopani Copper Mines and Konkola Copper Mines-KCM- has resulted in local mine suppliers and contractors losing up to 50 percent of their business.

Association Of Mine Suppliers and Contractors President Costa Mwaba Tells Phoenix News that out of the over 500 registered members, only up to 150 association members are actively participating in the mining business value chain while the rest just remain in the database.

Mr. Mwaba says both Mopani and KCM are not creating enough cash

flow to allow for expansion and production from which suppliers and contractors can benefit and is worried that while government is working on pertinent issues in the background, local businesses in the mines will continue to lose out.

He adds that the current situation at both KCM and Mopani has left suppliers and contractors fighting amongst themselves for the few opportunities available and is urging government to quickly intervene and ensure the two mines begin to operate at full capacity as opposed to the current 50 percent operational capacity.

PHOENIX NEWS