By XAVIER
MANCHISHI-
GOVERNMENT has congratulated Mopani Copper Mines Plc for winning the 2013 Mining Company of the Year award at the Chamber of Mines of Zambia’s inaugural industry-based awards.
Mopani was crowned Zambia’s Mining Company of the Year at the awards gala at Hotel Inter-Continental in Lusaka.
The company also received four other prizes including the Zambia Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative Award, Best Mining Employer for the Year, Best Performer in Occupational Health and Safety and Best Performer in Innovation.
Mines, Energy and Water Development Minister Christopher Yaluma, said Mopani had demonstrated its successful adaptation and integration into the Zambian business sector by winning more awards than any other mining company at the gala.
Mr Yaluma said these awards demonstrate that Mopani is fully adhering to the laws of the land and is fully aligned with the Government’s overall objective to grow the economy.
“Mopani is playing a key role in our economy not only through their contributions to our treasury but also by raising the standard of living for the people in the areas where the company is operating. In short, Mopani has demonstrated that it is concerned about the welfare of our people,” Mr Yaluma said.
Labour and Social Security Minister, Fackson Shamenda, praised Mopani for providing what he described as a positive working environment which had made the company an employer of choice in the mining industry.
“I would like to commend Mopani for supporting the Government’s agenda of creating high quality, sustainable jobs as well as providing an environment for career development especially for our young people.
“This is in line with the Patriotic Front Government’s manifesto and we shall be using Mopani as a model for other companies to follow,” Mr Shamenda said.
The Chamber of Mines of Zambia awards recognise excellence and best practices in the mining sector.
A total of 10 of Zambia’s leading mining companies took part in the awards and were assessed by an independent panel of highly-experienced judges, for their performances in such critical areas as labour, environmental sustainability, social investment and safety, among others.
Mopani Chief Executive Officer, Danny Callow, said he was happy that the company’s efforts were being recognised.
“I’m delighted that our effort and commitment to providing a world-class mining operation have been recognised by industry experts.
It  has always been our aim to provide our employees with a healthy and safe environment, where they can realise their goals,” Mr Callow said.