Kagem Achieves Four Years Without Lost Time Injury
Kagem Mining Limited has been recognised by the Minerals Regulation Commission for achieving four consecutive years without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), marking a historic first for the mine.
Speaking during the recognition event, Director for Mine Inspections and Audits at the Minerals Regulation Commission, Elite L. Mhone, commended Kagem for its exemplary safety performance, describing the achievement as the result of deliberate planning, continuous review and consistent follow-through.
He noted that as Zambia seeks to accelerate development and strengthen its economic standing, productivity in the mining sector must increase without compromising worker safety. He said Kagem’s record demonstrates that high productivity and strong occupational health and safety standards can go hand in hand.
Receiving the award on behalf of the company, Kagem Board Chair Sixtus Mulenga said the recognition went beyond an accolade, as it represented the wellbeing of employees who safely return to their families after every shift while contributing to national economic growth.
Dr Mulenga said mining remains a complex and challenging industry, adding that Kagem’s success in responsibly mining world-class emeralds is anchored in a people-first approach that prioritises safety alongside operational efficiency.
In pursuit of a zero-harm culture, Kagem has implemented comprehensive health and safety training programmes and stringent safety protocols across its operations. The company said these measures have been central to sustaining LTI-free hours over the four-year period.
Dr Mulenga added that the milestone serves as a reminder of the importance of continual improvement in safety performance, driven by a culture of care and shared responsibility across the workforce.
In May 2025, Kagem was also recognised by the Mines Safety Department under the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development for surpassing 10 million LTI-free hours. The mine has previously received several safety accolades, including being named Best Mine in Safety by the Zambia Chamber of Mines in 2024 and receiving the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary’s Award in 2024 and 2025.
Kagem’s Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Quality, Benedict Bukoka, said the four-year LTI-free achievement was a collective effort, with every employee playing a role in upholding safety standards and reinforcing the company’s zero-harm culture.
He said the recognition underscores Kagem’s commitment to safety, health and wellbeing beyond regulatory compliance, stressing that no gemstone is more valuable than the people who mine it.
Kagem has also attained several international certifications, including ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management Systems, ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and ISO 27001:2022 for Information Security Management Systems.
Based in Lufwanyama, Kagem Mining Limited is one of the world’s leading emerald mines. The company is operated and 75 per cent owned by Gemfields, in partnership with the Zambian Government’s Industrial Development Corporation.
Gemfields is a global leader in the mining of coloured gemstones and operates major assets in Africa. The company is also known for its proprietary grading system and auction platform, as well as its investment in community development, conservation initiatives and responsible mining practices through the Gemfields Foundation.
