National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAU) has welcomed intentions by China Nonferrous Mining Corporation (CNMC) to reopen Baluba mines within the first quarter of this year following the increase in copper prices on the world market.
NUMAU vice president Adams ZULU has since appealed to the CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines to consider engaging workers on permanent and pensionable jobs once the mine was fully operationalized.
About U$13 million will be injected into the reopening of the mine which is set to reopen within three months, LNMC Luanshya Copper Mines Deputy chief Executive Officer Wang Jinjun said.
Baluba mine was placed on care and maintenance three years ago which saw 1, 640 workers lose their jobs.
Mr. Zulu said the plan to reopen Baluba mine was a welcome move which he said was long overdue and that would result in the creation of jobs in the mining town.
The union leader who commended government for engaging the mining firm in the reopening of the plant said government was key in the creation of jobs and fostering economic development across the country.
He has since appealed to CNMC to consider the creation of permanent and pensionable jobs once the mine was fully operationalized saying the current package for miners leaves much to be desired.
And Luanshya Chamber Of Commerce President Luanshya Peter Wankumbwa commended President Edgar Lungu for engaging the mining firm in the reopening of the plant saying it will help in reducing poverty and unemployment levels in the district.
Mr. Wankumbwa further appealed CNMC to prioritize engaging Luanshya based contractors and suppliers to ensure economic growth of other sectors in the district.
And Mr. Jinjun said the company was looking forward to the reopening of Baluba mine after the increase in copper prices on the world market.
He indicated that the reopening of the mine will be enhanced by concerted efforts with government and the community of Luanshya district.
Mr. Wang however appealed to members of the public to take time to understand and appreciate the challenges which the mining company was facing such as increment in the price of Sulphuric acid, electricity tariffs by Copperbelt Energy Cooperation and also the paying back of the company loans.
akakukubiti…. CK was very right