The Executive Director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Ben Nangombe, has emphasised the importance of prioritising the health and safety of mine workers in the country.

Nangombe said this during the signing of the Mine Health and Safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) between the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations, and Employment Creation.

The SOPs are aimed at guiding the country in prioritising the prevention, effective screening, and treatment of TB among mine workers. 

The procedures include risk management, early diagnosis, and surveillance of TB, HIV, and occupational lung diseases in mining.

Nangombe said that addressing these factors within the mining sector requires a comprehensive approach, focusing not only on improving ventilation but also on broader health interventions, education, and access to healthcare services.