Mines Ministry Takes Action to Protect Miners Lives Following Four Deaths at Mopani
By Rogan Labika,
The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, through the Mineral Regulations Commission, has implemented urgent interventions to protect miners’ lives following a series of fatal accidents at Mopani Copper Mines that claimed the lives of four miners.
Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, announced in Parliament that the measures include the immediate suspension of operations at all affected sites within Mopani Copper Mines.
He further revealed that Government has revoked the appointments of several key mining officials from both the mine owners and contracted firms, citing failure to uphold required safety standards.
In addition to the suspensions, Mr. Kabuswe said the Commission has instituted a comprehensive Safety, Health and Environmental audit across all Mopani operations to assess compliance and prevent future accidents.
Meanwhile, Mufulira Constituency Member of Parliament, Golden Mwila, said the recent frequency of accidents at Mopani exposes a lack of seriousness in the implementation of safety protocols by both mine owners and contractors.
Mr. Mwila urged the Mine Safety Department to strengthen enforcement and oversight in mining communities to prevent further loss of life.
