The Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has supported plans by Luanshya Copper Mines to recruit an additional 1,000 miners to the existing 2,480.
MUZ President Rayford Mbulo says the development will go a long way in increasing production for the benefit of both the workers and the company.
Mr. Mbulo told ZANIS in an interview in Lusaka today that, it is important for companies not to only invest in capital development but also in human resource.
He said this is because the labour force acts as an essential component in achieving increased production in any company.
He said it is for this reason that any initiative by investors to create employment opportunities for the local people should be commended because it can also assist in reducing poverty levels among the people.
Mr. Mbulo explained that when a company records an increase in its production activities it is likely to provide more employment chances that can consequently uplift the living standards of people.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mbulo has challenged the management at the Copper Mine not only to concentrate in investing in capital expansion but to also improve the working conditions for the miners.
He said there is need for the management to give workers awards for them to benefit from increased production.
He noted that with continued rise in copper prices at the international market, mining companies should always adhere to the terms and periods of collective agreements that they sign with workers unions.
Mr. Mbulo further reaffirmed that MUZ will continue to engage mining companies to ensure that workers rights and conditions of service are respected at all times.
China Non Ferrous Metal Company’s Luanshya Copper Mines (CLM) has announced plans to employ an additional of 1,000 miners in readiness for the beginning of production at the Mulyashi open pit mine that was launched by President Rupiah Banda last month.
The company has also announced that this year, a supplementary investment of more than US$150 million to rehabilitate infrastructure at the Copper mine will be put in place.
ZANIS
It is interesting to be hearing of such News. Talking about new jobs being created for the people of Luanshya. But if you go there and see who are getting the jobs are coming from other towns like chambanishi, Kitwe and Ndola. For the people who have been suffering for a long time in Luanshya are been asked to pay about K500,000 if one wants to have a place or a job. Now is it fair??? I hope some people have changed there minds to help the people of Luanshya and not only there families and relatives.
ah shh ah shh ahh shh icintu ukuwama bane! :d
Ya, this is looking good for my campaign next year…..:d