Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) have extended a longstanding relationship during compliance and familiarisation meetings held at KCM.

ZIPS officials held meetings with KCM management and staff members during the visit that focused on improving compliance levels and finding new ways for the mining giant and institute to work together.

Konkola Copper Mines General Manager for Corporate Affairs Eugene Chungu pledged the company’s commitment to full compliance with the regulatory body.

Mr. Chungu also announced KCM’s readiness to take on local trainees in Purchasing and Supply Management on industrial attachments as a way to broaden their professional outlook and help them gain relevant experience in the field. KCM currently trains over 900 students every year on industrial attachments in various disciplines.
ZIPS Executive Director Francis Kunda took the opportunity to reiterate the importance of continuous professional development by people working in the supply and procurement profession.

Mr. Kunda further encouraged ZIPS members to familiarize themselves with the Public Procurement Act as a way of ensuring the integrity of the profession is always upheld by purchasing and supply professionals.

The meeting was part of a series of visits to mining houses and utility companies on the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces by ZIPS to audit compliance levels and meet with members at the respective firms.