Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has confirmed that 351 employees at Chambeshi Metals have been sent on leave due to the failure by the company to import copper concentrates.
Our Copperbelt Staffer Alick Nyankata reports that MUZ President Joseph Chewe says Chambeshi wrote to the labour Commissioner to suspend operations due to failure to import concentrates from the Democratic Republic of Congo prompting the mining firm to halt its operations.
Mr. Chewe said despite Chambeshi Metals informing the labour Commissioner over the halting of operations they however did not give reasons why they had failed to import feed stock or when they will stock.
He said issues of failure to acquire concentrates is an in house issue and workers should not be sacrificed.
He added that the company should ensure that jobs for the employees are secured.
Mr. Chewe disclosed that all the 351 workers who have been put on forced leave will be on full pay adding that the 200 employees have been retained to run the mining company under care and maintenance.
He further urged government to intervene in the matter and engage Chambeshi Metals to clear its position in the matter as the company is mostly depended on by the residents of Kalulushi and Chambeshi for the jobs.

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