Two investors have so far shown interests to take over the operations at the defunct Albidon Munali Nickel mine in Mazabuka.
Mines and Natural Resources Minister Wilbur Simuusa says government has made head ways in ensuring that a potential and suitable partner is found for the mine.
Speaking in an interview with ZANIS in Lusaka last week, Mr. Simuusa said currently government is just scrutinizing the investors to ensure that an appropriate partner who will improve the operations at the mine is found.
Mr Simuusa noted that the current problems at the mine need an effective and efficient investor who will be able to work hard and improve the situation.
He explained that government will make sure that it advises the investor on how best they can improve and address the problems.
Mr. Simuusa cited poor working conditions as one of the problems that needed urgent attention hence government will strive to ensure that the investor who will be selected is properly advised for the betterment of the workers welfare.
He added that government is also interested in finding a partner that will be able to retain the entire workforce.
Mr Simuusa further disclosed that despite the mine not doing any productions workers have continued to receive their salaries.
The Minister stressed that this was in line with government policy of promoting job creation for the people in the country.
Munali nickel mine last year in November halted production citing cash-flow problems caused by lower global nickel prices as well as operational disruptions at Zambia’s sole nickel miner.
According to the management mine suffered a spate of operational disruptions since early last year, ranging from miners’ strikes to accidents, leading to several stoppages.
To minimize losses, the company halted output pending a restricted program as well as an investment partner to recapitalize the mine.
However, government described the halting of production at the mine as premature as it was not informed before such a decision was made.
ZANIS
The only Nickel mine in Zambia and it’s failing.
Why?
This is what the investor will look at first.
Ya tubombeko zo-ona
Ok Bane we are tired of rethorics. First MC Sata said in October that he has found an investor. This was during the Magoye By-elections campaign rally. next Simuusa claimed an investor has been found and the Mine to be operational before December, 2011 before X-Mass. Next the Same Simuusa changed claimed before end of December, then before January 2012 nd finally this release. Atase why is PF in a habit of cheating of late????
“Mr Simuusa  disclosed that despite the mine not doing any productions workers have continued to receive their salaries. The Minister stressed that this was in line with government policy.”
Say what?Â
Oh yes, I’m sure investors will be lined up around the corner to take over a defunct mine with no production and a workforce they cannot trim.Â
Else…. “He explained that government will make sure that it advises the investor on how best they can improve and address the problems” Â sounds more like a threat than a promise.Â
too much mediocre statements from PF ..
Iwe Simuusa go to your constituency and do the roads, Your constituency has the worst roads in southern Africa.
The mine produces low grade concentrates;that are expensive to transport.
Solution; is to put a smelter or high pressure leach plant , as to add value to the product.
Ok, Wilbur now go to your constituency and do the roads. The roads in your constituency are the worst in Southern hemisphere.
We are watching you closely do the roads. Across Zambia at least one or two roads have been in all constituency or repaired, even tarred, but in your constituency no road has been worked on meaningfully for the past 25yrs.
Ba biggie No.7 you seem to have studied a few words in mining technology..mwilatutinya!!!
@Patambala 9 Ba Biggie bali paunda.
Give me that ka mine to run,you see serious production in 90 days
i thought this gov wanted to own mines on behalf of the people, well here is the opportunity.