State House distances self from contractors allegedly peddling names of govt officials to secure mining contracts

Jito Kaumba, President Hakainde Hichilema’s Trade and Investment Special Advisor, has cautioned against using State House’s name to secure mining supply contracts.

Speaking at a suppliers and contractors forum in Kitwe on Wednesday, Kaumba dismissed allegations that he was influencing contract allocations at Mopani Copper Mines.

“The President does not tolerate government officials interfering in private business affairs. Many who have engaged in such practices before have been dismissed,” he said.

Kaumba emphasized that the days of State House facilitating tenders were over.

“Perhaps some people were used to getting assistance from those in government, but this administration does not tolerate that. If you do it, you are fired,” he warned.

He added that government’s focus was on developing mine suppliers into globally competitive business players.

His remarks followed accusations from a group of mine suppliers and contractors who recently claimed that Mopani Copper Mines was favoring Indian-origin suppliers while alleging government interference in contract allocations.

Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, urged Copperbelt businesses to engage with authorities rather than resorting to demonstrations.

“If you have concerns, engage us directly instead of protesting in graveyards. We should resolve issues through dialogue,” Kabuswe said.

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