ZACCI okays KCM deal

...increased copper production progressive

THE decision by Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) to outsource workers and grow copper production to 400, 000 tons per annum by partnering with specialised operators is progressive, says Zambia Chamber Of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) president Michael Nyirenda.

Mr Nyirenda said that the growth in production at a time when copper prices were rising, would lead to increased foreign earnings.

He told the Daily Nation that the increased production would ultimately contribute to the stability of the currency, considering the fact that Zambia was still dependent on traditional exports.

Mr Nyirenda also welcomed the decision by the mining giant to second employees to contractors but reminded KCM that the move would assure workers of job security and maintain conditions of employment.

He emphasized that the secondment of employees to contractors would also result in skills and knowledge transfer.

Mr Nyirenda said the transfer of skills and knowledge was essential for improved efficiency in the mining industry.

“The growth in production will lead to increased foreign earnings and ultimately contribute to the stability of our currency considering the fact that Zambia is still dependent on traditional exports.

“We also note that the decision by KCM to second their employees to the contractors will not only assure job security and maintain conditions of employment but also result in skills and knowledge transfer. This is essential for improved efficiency in the industry,” he said.

Mr Nyirenda advised that the proposal by KCM to partner with specialized operators to grow copper production, and temporary attach employees whose contract of employment would remain KCM employees to contractors should be supported.

Meanwhile, KCM has announced a plan to invest about US$ 1 billion dollars in its operations to increase copper production from the current 150000 tonnes to 400000 tonnes per year.

The mining company also said that it would engage specialised partners to help with this upgrade, but that conditions of service of employees would not be affected.