The Zambian government has taken a firm stance against mine-related accidents, condemning the recent deaths at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and promising accountability. Permanent Secretary of Mines and Minerals Development, Hapenga Kabeta, declared that KCM will face charges for the two tragic incidents that occurred on Saturday and Monday, which claimed the lives of two workers.
Dr. Kabeta emphasized that safety is a non-negotiable priority in the mining industry. “Miners’ families expect their loved ones to return home alive and well after every shift,” he said, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance approach to preventable accidents. A detailed report from the Mines and Safety Department (MSD) is expected soon, with KCM set to be held accountable for the fatalities.
“KCM will be charged, that’s the process we follow when accidents like this happen. We manage these matters strictly to ensure the safety of workers,” Dr. Kabeta stated in an interview. Despite acknowledging KCM’s head of safety as a respected figure, Dr. Kabeta reiterated that no loss of life in the mines should ever be condoned.
In response to the incidents, KCM management has initiated a company-wide stand down, temporarily halting operations in Chingola, Chililabombwe, Nampundwe, and Kitwe. These shutdowns are intended to review and reinforce safety procedures across its mining and processing plants. KCM has also announced plans for comprehensive safety retraining for all employees, aiming to prevent any future accidents.
The fatalities include Stephen Daka, a 38-year-old dump truck driver working for a contractor at the Chingola Open Pit, and Lawrence Ndalama, a KCM employee who died at the Nchanga Mine’s New East Mill. Both incidents have prompted urgent reviews of the company’s safety protocols.
KCM management has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all workers, emphasizing that every effort will be made to prevent further tragedies and ensure that employees return home safely after each shift.
