Government says it is gratified with Mopani Copper Mines management’s assurance that no miner will lose employment during its implementation of cost saving measures the company is undertaking.

Mufulira District Commissioner, Hildah Kawesha says Mopani Copper Mines management has informed her that no one of its employee will lose their job at the Mufulira mine site it is implementing cost saving measures meant to keep the operations of the company viable.

Ms Kawesha who revealed this Bright Nundwe paid a courtesy call on her yesterday in Mufulira District, that Mopani has informed her that since it has been operating at a loss due to operational challenges it has undergone, it has decided to implement cost saving measures.

According to a memo issued to its employees, the mining giant cites low copper output, increased power tariffs, and unpaid VAT refunds as among the major reasons that risk making the operations of the mine unsustainable.

And Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, Bright Nundwe has instructed security wings in the area to be on high alert for any smuggling of mealie meal as this could jeopardize the country’s food security.

Mr. Nundwe said there is need to ensure full enforcement of the existing ban on mealie meal exportation ,in order to avoid hikes in mealie meal prices.

Source: Lusaka Times