FQM and Mine Unions Reach Agreement with 8% Salary Increase for 2024
First Quantum Minerals Ltd, through its subsidiaries Kansanshi Mining and FQM Trident, has successfully negotiated and signed a collective bargaining agreement with six unions. The agreement, effective from January 1st, 2024, includes an 8 percent increase in the basic salary for eligible employees.
The signed agreement involves prominent unions such as the National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW), Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ), Miners and Allied Workers Union (MAWU), United Mine Workers Union of Zambia (UMUZ), Consolidated Miners and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (CMAUZ), and Miners Technicians, Artisans and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (MTAAWZ).
During the signing ceremony, Kansanshi Mining General Manager Anthony Mukutuma emphasized the company’s commitment to providing favorable working conditions for its employees.
He expressed satisfaction with the negotiation outcomes and expressed optimism about the progress of the company’s S3 Expansion project, anticipating a boost in production at the Kansanshi Mine.
Mr. Mukutuma highlighted the uniqueness of Kansanshi Mine, with a mine life of well over 20 years remaining, positioning it as an asset that requires careful stewardship.
He provided insights into the S3 Expansion project, stating that by 2025, Kansanshi’s copper production is expected to reach 250,000 tonnes.
FQM Trident Assistant General Manager Frederic Wouters, also speaking at the event, emphasized the company’s commitment to an open-door policy for continuous improvement of employee conditions.
He acknowledged the importance of recognizing and rewarding staff for their contributions to production and stressed the positive impact on the company’s strategic initiatives and overall success.
NUMAW president Saul Simujika reassured the management of Kansanshi Mining and FQM Trident of the workers’ dedication to maximizing productivity and actively contributing to reducing operational and production costs.
FQM Trident Human Resource Manager Brighton Mwiinga highlighted the mining firm’s commitment to remaining competitive in the labor market sustainably.
He mentioned that the agreed-upon salary increments and education allowances would alleviate the economic pressures felt by their workforce of over 4,200 employees, a majority of whom are represented by the unions involved in the deal.
