Kagem Mining Honoured for Surpassing 10 Million LTI-Free Hours in Workplace Safety Milestone
Kagem Mining Limited has been honoured by Zambia’s Mines Safety Department for achieving over 10 million hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), a rare and commendable milestone in the high-risk mining sector.
The company reached 10,098,176 consecutive LTI-free hours, an achievement recognised during a high-level ceremony in Kitwe.
The award underscores Kagem’s leadership in workplace safety, as maintaining a zero Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) demonstrates a robust safety culture.
A Lost Time Injury is defined as any incident that results in an employee missing work. Surpassing 10 million LTI-free hours is a significant indicator of operational discipline and care for worker well-being.
The ceremony was attended by key figures from the mining industry and government, including Lufwanyama District Commissioner Justin Mwalikwa, Chief Inspector of Mines Lubinda Kamutumwa (representing Mines Safety Director Billy Chewe), Chamber of Mines CEO Sokwani Chilembo, and Kagem Managing Director CV Suresh.
District Commissioner Mwalikwa commended Kagem’s dedication to safety, noting that the company’s commitment sets a positive example for the entire sector.
Mr Kamutumwa echoed the sentiment, stating that the achievement reflects “unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of every employee.”
Chamber of Mines CEO Sokwani Chilembo highlighted Kagem’s alignment with the international Vision Zero campaign, which aims to eliminate workplace injuries in mining.
“Achieving this for a second consecutive year is a remarkable display of leadership,” he said.
Kagem Managing Director CV Suresh reiterated the company’s focus on a zero-harm workplace, noting this award follows last year’s milestones of 7.5 million LTI-free hours and recognition as ‘Best Mine in Safety’.
“Our pursuit of excellence is deeply rooted in our SHEQ — Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality — culture,” he added.
Kagem is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% by Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
The company also holds ISO certifications in occupational health and safety, environmental management, and quality assurance — reinforcing its role as a model for responsible and sustainable mining in Zambia.
