…calls for patriotism from KCM employees, management, contractors and suppliers
By MILLENNIUM REPORTER
ADVOCATES for National Development and Democracy (ANDD), is optimistic that Vedanta Resources will turn Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) into a viable entity once it is in full control of the asset after the transition process.
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ANDD Executive Director, Samuel Banda, has since called for patriotism from KCM employees, management, contractors and suppliers, saying their role is to compliment the investor’s efforts.
Mr Banda says, after the transition process, a lot of job and business opportunities will be created at KCM that will result in uplifting the living standards of the people.
Speaking when he featured on Millennium TV the Pulse Nation programme on Wednesday, Mr Banda says suppliers and contractors are expecting Vedanta Resources to clear the debt owed to them by KCM.
He says, already Vedanta has committed about US$250 million for dismantling arrears owed to contractors and suppliers by KCM.
“We know for sure that when Vedanta takes over full control of KCM, we will see a positive change in the country’s economy as the investor will come with its own contribution to increased economic activities. Our hope now is for government to unlock Mopani Copper Mine as it will also come with its own contribution to economic growth,” he said.
Mr Banda also called for the speedy introduction of the Mineral Marketing Agency, saying this will help miners not only marketing their minerals but also finding a market.
And Mr Banda says, the organisation is hopeful that government will unlock Mopani Copper Mine to help boost the country’s economy.
Mr Banda has since appealed to government to expedite the negotiations process with a prospective investor so that the mine get into optimum operations.
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