It is reported that Mr Isaiah Kashiba, 36, a miner at Zambia's leading copper producer Konkola Copper Mines by output, died recently following a fatality while on duty.

Mr Kashiba died on 3 August at Nchanga Tailings leach plant at one of KCM operations on the Copperbelt after sustaining burns and was admitted to a local medical centre in Chingiola, one of the oldest mining towns in Zambia. He later died on 19 August despite undergoing specialized treatment at the company's health centre.

KCM head of corporate affairs Mr Joy Sata in a 'belated' statement, regretted the demise of Mr Kashiba and that the company sought to convey heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family for the loss of their breadwinner.

He said "Mr. Kashiba, who was aged 36, a KCM employee, at the Nchanga TLP, sustained burns and underwent specialized treatment. He died on Thursday, 19th August 2011. KCM regrets the incident and would like to pass its heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family.”

The miner, renowned for high safety record at places of work, has since launched investigations into the matter to establish the cause.

(Filed by Mr Kapembwa Sinkamba SteelGuru Correspondent Zambia)