Protect KCM Employees, Says HH
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has been in the news this week following reports that production had been halted at the Konkola Deep mine as a result of a shortage of funds.
The Government, which previously seized the mine and handed control to a provisional liquidator, has been quick to refute these reports.
Amidst the confusion UPND leader and presidential candidate Hakainde Hichilema has called for the protection of the mine’s employees.
“I am not a prophet, I’m a businessman and I know when I see a bad deal,” Hichilema stated.
“The handling of KCM saga has been a disaster. I gave options to the Government on the best way forward, as usual they didn't listen,” he continued.
“KCM employees must be protected at all costs,” HH concluded.
Copper accounts for 73% of Zambia’s exports. With prices for the metal surging and back to $10,000 a tonne there has been concern regarding interruptions to the mine’s operations and the potential impact of any supply issues an already weak economy.