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Four workers who sustained life-altering injuries in an industrial accident at Lubambe Mine have filed a lawsuit in the Lusaka High Court, demanding over K2 million each in compensation.
The four men—Tantu Simbaya, Kelvin Kaunda, James Zimba, and Jonas Chibale—were employed by Reliant Mining and Construction, a company contracted by Lubambe Mine, at the time of the accident, which occurred on April 19, 2024.
Both Reliant Mining and Lubambe Mine have been named as defendants, accused of gross negligence and breach of statutory duty.
The accident happened while the workers were being transported underground in a man carrier (PC-06) operated by Chibale.
The vehicle lost control and crashed into the haulage, leaving the men with permanent injuries.
Chibale, 35, who held a Blasting Licence and was earning K2,883.80, suffered a spinal cord dislocation that led to libido dysfunction, permanently affecting his conjugal relations.
His employment was terminated on August 16, 2024.
He is now seeking K2.7 million in damages for physical and emotional trauma, as well as permanent incapacitation.
Kaunda, 31, another Blasting Licence holder who earned K3,280.20, suffered fractures to his left humerus and right fibula. He is demanding K2.2 million in compensation for his injuries and loss of livelihood.
Simbaya, 52, a pump assistant earning K2,586.40, sustained severe injuries, including a spinal cord dislocation, pelvic fracture, broken ribs, and other debilitating wounds. He is seeking K2.2 million, including K1.5 million for the permanent incapacitation that has left him unable to work or care for himself independently.
Zimba, 46, a Safety Officer earning K4,587, fractured his proximal femur, leaving him unable to bend his right leg, which now has interlock nails. He is demanding K2.4 million for the pain and mobility issues that would affect him for life.
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The plaintiffs are also seeking damages under the Mines and Minerals Development Act No. 11 of 2015, citing the defendants’ failure to provide proper safety measures.
They accused the companies of negligence and not fulfilling their statutory obligations, which they claimed directly caused the accident.
Lubambe Copper Mine Limited, as the mine owner, was held strictly liable under the Act, and the plaintiffs are demanding that the company take full responsibility for their injuries.
They are also calling for a written guarantee to cover all future medical expenses and personal needs arising from the accident.
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