Grizzly Mining Awards 13.5% Pay Rise to Workers
Grizzly Mining Limited, one of Zambia’s leading emerald producers, has signed a collective agreement with the Mine-Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) and the National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW), granting unionised employees a 13.5% salary increase across the board.
The agreement was sealed during a signing ceremony held at Baluba Game Resort in Luanshya. Speaking on behalf of Group Vice Chairman Abdoul Ba, General Manager Projects Barbara Shilengwe said the increment, alongside a 4% hardship allowance and a K1,200 education allowance, is aimed at boosting worker morale despite prevailing economic challenges.
“My fellow workers, I would have loved to increase more but the situation on the ground could not allow due to economic and business challenges,” read Ms. Shilengwe. “However, this increase is meant to help cushion the economic pressures you face.”
Mr. Ba also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the New Dawn administration and promoting fair workplace practices and social justice.
Group Human Resources Manager Victor Mpundu echoed this sentiment, describing the wage deal as a reflection of Grizzly’s long-standing commitment to fair compensation and employee welfare.
“We have maintained competitive wages that have positioned us as one of the leading employers in the mining sector,” Mr. Mpundu said. “This increment will improve the living standards of our employees and strengthen trust with our stakeholders.”
MUZ President Joseph Chewe applauded Grizzly Mining’s consistency in salary payments, noting the company’s track record of avoiding work stoppages due to unpaid wages — a rare feat in Zambia’s volatile mining sector.
“Grizzly pays its workers on time, and that is commendable,” Mr. Chewe said. “The figures may not be the best, but given the economic climate, they are reasonable. We must continue fostering dialogue between unions and management.”
MUZ branch chairman John Ndlobvu also expressed gratitude to Grizzly for honouring union demands, urging employees to respond with improved productivity.
“Let us work even harder to increase production and show our appreciation through performance,” Mr. Ndlobvu said.
Grizzly Mining operates in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province and is renowned for producing some of the world’s largest high-grade emeralds. The company remains a key player in the mining sector, with a commitment to sustainable practices and community development.
