China-Zambia friendship solid: Zambian business association

MUFULIRA -- Chinese firms have maintained jobs for Zambians during COVID-19, a sign of strengthened friendship between the two nationalities, a business association has said.

Albert Miti, committee member for Mufulira District Business Association, applauded the Chinese investors in Zambia, particularly in Mufulira for marinating jobs for Zambians despite having been affected by COVID-19.

"Since COVID-19 broke out we have never heard of any of the Chinese investors cut off labour in view of the outbreak, the companies have, however, strictly adhered to COVID-19 preventive measures for their workers including their families," said Miti

He also observed that the Chinese enterprises have also not reduced salaries for their workers.

"While some companies have cut off their labour force and even reduced salaries for the remaining workers, this has not been the case with Chinese owned firms," he said.

Miti said Zambians are happy that Chinese-owned companies have been committed to creating jobs for Zambians.

And a local entrepreneur Patrick Mahongo said despite Chinese creating jobs for the local people they were also committed in helping small scale farmers in Mufulira district and surrounding areas.

"Chinese firms, have been consistent in helping our small scale farmers, they have clearly shown that they are not just interested in making profits," said Mahongo.

According to Mahongo, Chinese nationalities, apart from supporting agriculture, have gone further in helping Zambian youths in skills training adding that this has helped improve young people's lives economically and socially.

"This bilateral relationship should continue, because it has benefited Zambians in many areas from job creation to skills training among other developmental issues," he said.