MINISTRY of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr Hapenga Kabeta has urged mining firms to ensure they accurately declare copper production figures to reflect Zambia’s true copper output. And Dr Kabeta has expressed concern over the unsafe and outdated practice of housing mine workers in hostels within mining areas which violates regulations prohibiting residential construction in such zones. According to a statement issued by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Shamwinda Tembo, Dr Kabeta said underreporting production figures by some mines may be masking the country’s actual copper production. “The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has urged mining firms to adhere to regulatory requirements and ensure accurate declaration of production figures to reflect Zambia’s true copper output. During his...