MOPANI DELIVERS UNDERGROUND MAN-RIDING BUSES TO EASE WORKERS’ UNDERGROUND JOURNEY

MOPANI Copper Mines PLC has unveiled a fleet of underground man-riding buses that will be used by underground employees across its operations in Kitwe and Mufulira.

Speaking at the unveiling of the first delivery of the over 20 man-riding buses, Mopani Chief Operating Officer, Rajvee Bora, said the man-riding carriers are expected to solve a key underground challenge of long distances employees currently walk to reach their respective working areas.

The 20 man-riding buses, each with a 32-seat capacity, are part of the 47 operational equipment and machines acquired from Normet of Finland.

Mr Bora added that the carriers will further improve safety and productivity.

He said with employees no longer required to walk long distances underground, the workforce will arrive at work more energised and ready to perform, ultimately supporting stronger operational output.

Normet Global Chief Executive Officer, Eduardo Santamaria, said the company remains committed to delivering products that directly address the needs of underground mines and the people who work in them.

Nkana South Mine Manager, Evans Chilekwa, urged employees to take good care of the man-riding buses and expressed appreciation to Mopani’s leadership for providing the equipment.

“Our operations in most cases have been hampered by movements. Even the response to our breakdowns, whether from electrical sites or mobile equipment, has been a challenge. But today, that challenge is coming to an end.

As in Nkana South, we are receiving many carriers, as well as other equipment. So, a word of encouragement to the team members here, this equipment are ours, please let’s look after them,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mopani Chief Financial Officer, Sharad Gargiya, said management remains committed to providing employees with machinery that enables the company to produce safely and efficiently.

Mr Gargiya emphasised that employee safety is Mopani’s priority, including enhancing how workers move to their underground workstations through the procurement of the man-riding carriers.

He urged employees to care for the buses and avoid riding any other machinery that is not specifically designed for man-riding.