Law makers are impressed with First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Kansanshi Mining Plc for the transparency of its mining operations, stressing that the mine has no hidden agenda in its business in Zambia.
FQM Country Manager General Kingsley Chinkuli has encouraged Members of Parliament (MPs) to seek out knowledge to offer informed contributions in Parliament on important national issues.
Vice-chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Communications, Transport, Works and Supply and Local Government Accounts Pilila Jere stated it was impressive that the mine offered to MPs vital information about mining operations.
Ms Jere who led a five-man team on a tour of Kansanshi Mine at the invitation of management declared that the MPs were satisfied with the information they were given which cleared up speculations and inaccurate perceptions about the minerals extracted.
“We were invited by the mine management to interact with them. Based on the interactions, I am satisfied with what I have seen as far as operations are concerned.”
“The message is crystal clear: we saw a presentation on how the mine is segmented and how much the mine profits from Gold sales. It’s clear there is no hidden agenda. We will bear in mind what we have seen,” she said.
The Vice-chairperson encouraged Kansanshi Mine to organize a workshop for all MPs to enlighten them on its mining operations and business.
Kasama Central MP Kelvin Sampa said legislators have known that there was another component of minerals being extracted at Kansanshi Mine.
Mr Sampa said for the sake of clearing up doubts surrounding Gold, that it was important for MPs to see and appreciate all the processes and stages of mining during which other minerals are separated.
He commended the mine management for enlightening the MPs, explaining that it was not only making them aware of future challenges of the mine but also creating a roadmap on how certain issues could be resolved.
Chasefu MP Gerald Zulu declared the mining firm faces challenges with the proposed tax regime and that it was in order for the parliamentarians to undertake the tour to appreciate the mine’s concerns, while Chikankata MP Darius Mulunda said there was immense benefits being rolled out to the local community.
Meanwhile,General Chinkuli said MPs should acquaint themselves with vital national issues such as mining because they play a critical role in Parliament.
By Claver Mutinta, Times of Zambia
