MINING SECTOR POISED FOR GROWTH UNDER NEW DAWN GOVT SAYS NUMAW

MINEWORKERS unions are hopeful that the new dawn Government will reposition the mining sector into a reliable foreign exchange earner, which will contribute to national development and economic recovery says National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW) president, Saul Simujika.

Mr Simujika said the mining sector should be well organized to harness the potential of idle but profitable sectors such as artisanal mining in order to create jobs and business opportunities for Zambians.

In an interview with the Daily Nation, Mr

Simujika expressed confidence that President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration would continue to find lasting solutions to the various challenges in copper, emerald and artisanal mining sectors.

“Let us not pretend, the mining sector needs to be properly reorganised so that revenue collection is maximised to benefit the country as a major foreign exchange earner, while on the other side, bring pride to the miners by ensuring that they are properly remunerated.

“Other areas, which need proper reorganising include Artisanal Mining, which if properly exploited, will create jobs and business opportunities for the local people. We are hopeful that the New Dawn of President Hichilema will reorganise the sector for the benefit of all stakeholders,’’ Mr Simujika said.

He said mineworkers unions remained confident that President Hichilema would find a solution to the challenges at Mopani Copper Mines (MCM), Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and Chambishi Metals, among others.