Another Miner Dead: MUZ Warns Mining Fatalities Must Stop
The Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 46-year-old miner Justin Chungu, who lost his life in an accident at Lubambe Copper Mine on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.
According to the Zambia Police Service, the incident occurred around 13:00 hours, several hours after Mr Chungu reported for duty at 06:30. Serving as an electrician, he was deployed underground and later found unconscious.
He was rushed to the mine clinic, where medical personnel pronounced him dead.
MUZ President Joseph Chewe extended the union’s condolences to the family and the wider mining community. “We are deeply saddened by the untimely death of our fellow miner, Justin Chungu, who lost his life in the line of duty,” Mr Chewe said.
However, he warned that this tragedy is not an isolated event but part of a worrying pattern in the mining sector, highlighting systemic safety deficiencies.
“This incident is a stark and painful reminder of the risks which miners continue to operate under. It is unacceptable that miners are still losing their lives due to preventable circumstances,” Mr Chewe stated.
He further noted that 2026 is already shaping into a tragic year for the industry, with multiple fatalities recorded in the first quarter alone, calling for urgent corrective action from mines, regulators, and all relevant stakeholders.
MUZ has demanded a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the incident, with clear timelines and public accountability.
The union also called for strengthened safety inspections, mandatory audits of safety protocols across all mining operations, increased investment in worker safety systems, and enhanced worker participation in safety oversight at mine sites.
“The protection of workers’ lives must take precedence over production targets and profit considerations,” Mr Chewe emphasised. MUZ reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the safety, health, and welfare of all mine workers and holding stakeholders accountable to the highest occupational safety standards.
