Konkola Copper Mines -KCM- has taken a lead towards the provision of improved neonatal
healthcare in Zambia with a US$32,000 respiratory support for new born babies.
This is because the Copperbelt region, a major economic area, has the second-highest death rate, mainly due to premature births, infections, and birth complications.

Malcolm Mewett, the KCM Chief Operating Officer says preterm births at 13 percent are
contributing to about 6,800 infant deaths annually.

Mr. Mewett has stressed the importance of CPAP therapy in boosting survival rates and
called on healthcare professionals, the government, partners, and communities to work
together to enhance newborn care, emphasizing that every newborn baby deserves the
chance to survive.

He stated this in a statement read on his behalf by Phyllis Chituta, the KCM Acting Chief
Commercial Officer when the Newborn Support Zambia launched a vital initiative to combat the country’s growing infant mortality crisis, where 100 babies die each week.
Raphael Chimupi, the Chingola District Commissioner praised KCM’s commitment to
healthcare, highlighting it as a strong example of corporate responsibility. Mr. Chimupi, who represented Mr. Elisha Matambo, the Copperbelt Minister noted that the initiative supports Zambia’s national health priorities.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kunda Kapembwa, a neonatologist, says loss of 100 babies in a week is
tragic because this can be prevented with proper care.
And Newborn Support Zambia, under the auspices of KCM – Vedanta Group, has invested
US$32,000 to provide 50 advanced CPAP machines to help premature infants with
breathing difficulties.