Message Jeu 7 Aoû 2014 09:00

State keen to see KCM’s success

GOVERNMENT wants to see Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) overcome its operational challenges because it is critical to the Zambian economy, Nchanga member of Parliament Wylbur Simuusa has said.
Mr Simuusa, who is also Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, said this on Tuesday shortly after commissioning a new equipment worth US$16 million at the Chingola Open pit which resumed operations on July 1, 2014 after a one-and-half-year break.

“KCM is critical to the growth of the mining sector and the Zambian economy and it holds together the local economy of Chingola and the other towns in which the company operates,” Mr Simuusa said.
This is according to a statement issued on Tuesday by KCM.
“It is important that KCM performs well and as member of Parliament for Nchanga, I will render all the necessary support to KCM so that it can completely come out of the problems it has faced in recent times,” Mr Simuusa said
He is happy that KCM is implementing measures intended to improve its operations through the business improvement plan, which will soon bring positive results to the entire nation.
KCM has purchased three hydraulic excavators, one of them a seven cubic metre bucket and two 15 cubic metre buckets.
The company has also bought two bulldozers, six light vehicles and a bus.
KCM has also refurbished two Komatsu 100 tonne trucks and four Caterpillar 240 tonne trucks and put them back into production.
KCM chief executive officer Steven Din assured Mr Simuusa of Vedanta’s commitment to Zambia saying the company is operating on a 50-year vision.
“The new excavators that Mr Simuusa has commissioned have been acquired by KCM to increase production. They form part of a broader strategy towards increased production,
“We are investing in our communities. A strong community is the lifeblood of a strong business. That is why this week KCM approved an additional $1.6 million to be spent on infrastructure refurbishment and equipment at our hospitals,” Mr Din said.