Copperbelt Contractors Protest Against Mopani Mine’s Alleged Favoritism
Written by Mafken FM Newsroom on 26 March 2025
By Respite Kaoma
Local mine suppliers and contractors in Kitwe district on the Copperbelt yesterday staged a protest at Nkana East Cemetery against Mopani Copper Mines (MCM), accusing the company of excluding them from business opportunities and favoring Indian-owned companies.
The protesters, who were initially chased away from David Mwila House where they were scheduled to air out their grievances, appealed to President Hakainde Hichilema to intervene.
They expressed concerns that the government had brought in an unsuitable investor, contrary to their expectations.
Frederick Chomba lamented that the issues that plagued the mine in the past still persist under the new contractor.
Enock Mwila claimed that management at Mopani award long-term contracts to foreign companies while restricting local vendors to short-term deals.
And Frank Zimba, popularly known for his “Fimba Upoke” slogan, stated that it is unfortunate that local contractors who are voters at the same time are being sidelined.
He warned the government that if this issue is not addressed, the UPND will lose popularity on the Copperbelt.
Mopani Copper Mines is yet to respond to the complaints.
Meanwhile, the Socialist Party on the Copperbelt has echoed the concerns of the protesters, calling on the government to take action to address the pressing issues affecting the mining industry.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kitwe, Copperbelt party’s Provincial Chairperson, Dr Brian Chirambo, emphasized the need for meaningful change and an end to the exploitation of miners.
