By Chiluba Chabi
Nine bodies recovered from Sensele Mine in Chingola over the past five days were buried today at Chingola Cemetery, bringing the total number of recovered bodies to 22.
This follows the tragic mine accident last year, which trapped over 31 miners, resulting in 22 recoveries and only one survivor.
Seven of the nine bodies buried today were identified by family members, while two remain unidentified. The bereaved families gathered in large numbers to honor and remember their loved ones during the solemn burial ceremony.
Mines and Mineral Development Minister Paul Kabuswe officiated the ceremony, reaffirming the government’s commitment to continuing the recovery efforts for the trapped miners, ensuring a dignified farewell for all bodies, regardless of their condition.
Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo reiterated the government’s determination to retrieve the remaining bodies and provide ongoing support to the affected families, as directed by President Hakainde Hichilema.
He assured the families that the government will stand by them until the completion of the recovery operation.
Mr. Matambo extended his gratitude to the small-scale miners, local authority, Konkola Copper Mine (KCM), district commissioner’s office, and other stakeholders working closely with the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) technical team since the retrieval exercise began.
Chingola Mayor Johnson Kangombe consoled the mourners, expressing deep sympathy and support.
District Commissioner Raphael Chimupi addressed the mourners, thanking the leaders who came to support the residents of Chingola.
The funeral procession was led by uniformed staff from the Armed Forces and clergy members, with Bishop Joseph Kazhila leading the Clergy.
Attendees at the burial service included Copperbelt Permanent Secretary Augustine Kasongo, Chingola Town Clerk Namukolo Kalufyanya, and members of the Provincial Joint Operations Committee (PJOC).
