afrol News, 7 March - The sacked Zambian mine workers of Chambishi copper mining firm have been given three days to reapply for their jobs and give reasons why they should join the Chambishi copper smelter or risk losing face redundancy.

Some 500 Zambian mine workers' sacking followed a riot and subsequent attack on their company's Chinese manager, resulting to his hospitalisation.

The workers went wild on Tuesday, burning several buildings as well as pelting stones at their managers as they attempted to hold talks.

The riots, fuelled by complaints of low wages and poor conditions, also led to the arrest of seven union officials.

In recent years, Chinese investment in Zambia's copper sector had boomed, amid several controversies over low wages and poor conditions of services.

In 2005, 50 people were killed by an explosion at the copper mine. The Chinese President, who feared protests by workers, cancelled his trip to Chambishi mine last year.

Copper mining contributes to the growth of Zambian economy. But some opposition figures have campaigned against Chinese investment in the sector.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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