Government says it will closely monitor the working conditions of contractors at Mopani Copper Mines to ensure fair wages and decent standards for workers, following the mine’s acquisition by Abu Dhabi’s International Resources Holdings (IRH).

Speaking when he featured on Radio Mafken’s express chit-chat programme, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, highlighted the government’s dedication to ensure that the benefits of Mopani’s transition to a new investor, cuts across all workers, including contractors and suppliers.

Mr Kabuswe revealed that he will soon embark on a fact-finding tour to assess the working conditions of contractor workers at Mopani Copper Mines as the government is interested in their well-being.

“I will be meeting contractors, not because we want to dictate but as government we are interested in making sure that they have good working conditions,” he said.

The Minister stressed that a successful mine depends on the motivation of all workers, including Mopani employees as well as contractors and suppliers.

Meanwhile, the Minister stated that the planned mapping of Zambia’s natural resources will commence in March.

He said the mapping as well as establishment of the Minerals Regulation Authority will ensure that Zambia maximises the benefits from its mineral resources.

And, Kankoyo Member of Parliament, Heartson Mabeta, expressed optimism about the economic impact of Mopani’s acquisition by a new investor.