Konkola Copper Mines ( KCM ) says it remains committed to ensuring a socially and environmentally friendly manner in all towns of its operation.
KCM Environmental Manager Moses Munkondya says his mining firm remains committed to ensuring its Community Social Responsibility (CSR ) in all towns it operates hence embarking on a Social and Environmental Impact Re-assessment Programme.
Mr Munkondya notes that over the years the mining company has conducted Social and Environmental Impact Assessments in accordance with approved Zambia Environmental Management Authority (ZEMA) regulations.
Speaking during a stakeholders meeting in Chingola, the KCM Environmental Manager said his Firm will continue to engage community leaders so that the environmental needs of local people are not affected by mining activities.
“You may wish to know that KCM has over the years conducted Social and Environmental Impact Assessments to ensure that community needs are not affected by mining activities,” Mr Munkondya said.
During the meeting, various submissions were made by stakeholders who also included local farmers and the business community, highlighting specific community needs and potential areas for collaboration.
Among the submissions was for the mining giantto make good use of their $20 Million Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Fund on uplifting the social and recreational infrastructure in Chingola..
Chingola Mayor Johnson Kang’ombe, on behalf of the community, said the bad state of the social and recreational Infrastructures in the district needed attention as soon as possible.
“The bad state of our social and recreational infrastructures have deprived our people of social amenities,” he said.
Mr Kang’ombe lamented that the small mining town, which until recently was the country’s cleanest , has various facilities gaping for reinvestment thereby contributing to improved livelihood.
He also highlighted that residents are eager to know how the US$20 million allocated for CSR by Vedanta Resources will be utilized.
“Local people are anxious to see and benefit from your CSR Initiatives”,Mr Kang’ombe said.
The Mayor emphasized on the need for clarity on the allocation of the funds to ensure they effectively address the needs of the community members.
Another Civic leader Mimosa Phiri who is Kwacha Ward Councilor said KCM should take a leading role to revamp the social amenities to keep local youths active.
Mr Mimosa told the mining Company to continue engaging local stakeholders in fostering socio-economic development in the district.
