Factories Reopen, Union Seeks Power

Over 2,000 workers reinstated, but production still constrained by energy shortages

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Kusaka, Zambia24  - (4-04-2026) - Factories that shut down in 2025 across Central Province have resumed operations, with more than 2,000 workers returning to their jobs, the Mines, Contractors, Factory and Allied Workers Union has announced.

Union president Nkweto Kasonka told journalists at a media briefing that the closures, which affected about 15 companies, had disrupted production—particularly in the manganese sector—and led to significant job losses.

“Last year we experienced a serious challenge where a number of companies were forced to shut down, resulting in thousands of workers losing employment,” Kasonka said during a media briefing.

He said following engagements with government, authorities assured stakeholders that the situation would be resolved and operations restored.

Kasonka confirmed that most of the affected companies, including those in Kabwe and other parts of Central Province, have since resumed operations, with more than 2,000 employees reinstated.

However, he warned that recovery remains limited, as many factories are operating at only 50 percent capacity due to restricted electricity supply.

“The major concern now is that these companies are only operating at half capacity because of limited power allocation. This is affecting productivity and slowing down full recovery,” he said.

He appealed to government to increase power supply to the industrial sector to enable companies to return to full production and potentially create more jobs.

Kasonka expressed confidence that government would respond to the concerns, describing it as “responsive and willing to engage.”

He also noted that global geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, could have ripple effects on the local economy, including commodity prices.

Despite this, the union commended government for recent measures aimed at cushioning citizens, including the suspension of excise duty and the zero-rating of certain taxes on fuel.

“These are timely interventions that have brought some relief to citizens and industry,” he said.

Kasonka further raised concerns over the cost of raw materials, particularly copper, saying local manufacturers are disadvantaged by buying inputs at international prices.

He noted that in some cases, it is cheaper for foreign companies to import Zambian copper, process it abroad, and remain competitive.

“We are appealing for a framework that allows local industries to access copper at more favourable prices to promote value addition and job creation,” he said.

Kasonka emphasised that the union remains committed to working with government, stating that supporting national policies does not equate to political endorsement.

“Our role is to engage constructively—support where there is progress and raise concerns where necessary,” he said.