Џејми Караматиќ е новиот генерален директор на Рудник САСА
As of 19 September, Jamie Karamatic officially assumed the role of General Director of Sasa, the lead and zinc mine located in Makedonska Kamenica. He succeeds Chris Colbourne, who was promoted to Chief Operating Officer for the Central Asia Metals (CAML) group earlier this year. Jamie Karamatic is an accomplished mining engineer with over 20 years of international experience in both underground and open-pit mining operations. He brings substantial technical expertise and a strong operational focus, developed through leadership roles in various mining projects around the world. For instance, in a company in Saudi Arabia, he led the technical functions across six mines, significantly improving operational performance. As technical services manager in a company in Australia, he headed a team of over 30 engineers, geologists and surveyors managing three underground copper mines. He also served as general manager of operations for a company managing several underground mines and ore processing plants, also in Australia. As General Director of Sasa mine, Mr. Karamatic will be responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of Sasa, ensuring the achievement of both short and long-term strategic goals, built on safe, efficient and sustainable production. Among other duties, he will also be responsible for overseeing the final implementation of Sasa’s Capital Projects and the continued transition to new mining methods aimed at further development and technological advancement of the mine. “I’m truly impressed with everything I’ve seen so far at Sasa, from the professionalism, expertise and dedication of the team, to the results achieved in safety, working conditions and employee well-being, as well as the overall technological progress and environmental commitment. My first impression is extremely positive. I believe Sasa is in an excellent position to continue on its path of sustainable growth, and I’m confident that through joint efforts with the Sasa team and the support we receive from CAML, we will continue to enhance our operations in a way that creates value for all – employees, investors, business partners, the local community and the national economy,” said Jamie Karamatic following his appointment. Mr. Karamatic is well-acquainted with the region, with family roots originating from Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition to his successful professional career, he is a passionate long-distance cyclist, fisherman, and a devoted father of two sons. Makedonska Kamenica, 22 September 2025
Рудник САСА го одбележува Денот на рударите со награди за вработените и донации за локалната заедница
On the occasion of 28 August, Macedonian Miners’ Day and the local holiday of Makedonska Kamenica, Sasa Mine continues its long-standing tradition of honouring the work and dedication of its employees, while reaffirming its commitment to supporting the local community’s prosperity. This year, all 790 employees of Sasa received appropriate gifts and cash awards. Continuing the tradition, the “Best Miner” recognition was presented to Darko Velinovski, who also received a special financial reward and a suitable gift. In addition to best miner Sasa leadership recognised another 121 employees with individual cash awards. Of the 121 awards, 16 were for employees’ contributions to workplace safety and environmental protection and 105 were for outstanding contributions to the safe and stable operations of the mine. As part of the activities marking the holiday, Sasa Mine, through its Foundation, also provided financial support for two key community projects. The Territorial Firefighting Unit of Makedonska Kamenica received protective equipment sets fully compliant with safety standards. Additionally, funds were invested in the full reconstruction of part of the sanitary facilities at the “Bambi” kindergarten in Makedonska Kamenica, significantly improving the conditions for the children attending the institution. “Our employees are the heart of Sasa. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to safety are fundamental to the success of our operations. The awards we present on Miners’ Day are a symbolic recognition of their daily efforts. At the same time, we firmly believe that Sasa’s development is inseparably linked to the progress of the community in which we operate, and we remain fully committed to supporting the municipality and its citizens,” said Christopher Colbourne, General Director of Sasa. He extended his congratulations to all Sasa employees and the wider mining industry in North Macedonia, as well as his best wishes to all residents of Makedonska Kamenica for health and success in all areas of life. As in previous years, Sasa is the main sponsor and partner of all locally organised events, including the central three-day cultural and music programme held at the town square to celebrate Miners’ Day and the local holiday of the Municipality of Makedonska Kamenica. Makedonska Kamenica, 27 August 2025
Рудник САСА го одбележа Светскиот ден на животната средина со заеднички активности со заедницата
To mark World Environment Day – this year themed around tackling plastic pollution – Sasa Mine launched three important activities to promote environmental awareness and community action. On this occasion, Sasa Mine donated an automatic reverse-vending machine – the first of its kind in the municipality of Makedonska Kamenica – which will allow citizens to easily contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. To celebrate the installation of the machine, educational activities involving young people from the local community were organised, aimed at raising awareness of the importance of recycling and sustainable development. Plastic Recycling, Made Easy The innovative reverse-vending machine, located in a high-traffic area in the town centre, enables residents and visitors of Makedonska Kamenica to deposit used plastic bottles that are then processed and sent for recycling. At the same time, each deposited bottle earns “green points,” redeemable for benefits and discounts on various products and services. This concept is designed to promote responsible behavior and contribute to reducing plastic waste in urban areas. “Today’s donation is part of Sasa Mine’s broader commitment to environmental protection and strengthening local ecological awareness. The vending machine is not just a device – it is a tool for change – raising awareness and enabling action to reduce plastic waste, one of today’s biggest global environmental risks. Through initiatives like this, and others we implement continuously, we aim to send a strong message as a company about the need for joint action toward a more sustainable future,” said Ivica Talevski, Sustainability Director at Sasa Mine. The Mayor of Makedonska Kamenica, Dimcho Atanasovski, expressed his gratitude for the donation, highlighting that the partnership with Sasa Mine is an example of successful collaboration between institutions and businesses in making long-term improvements for the community. “This donation will not only contribute to a cleaner environment but will also help build habits for responsible handling of plastic waste. We encourage the community to actively use the vending machine and to join efforts to reduce waste. I am confident this initiative will inspire other municipalities and companies to invest in green solutions,” said Mayor Atanasovski. Eco-Bazaar: Turning Waste into Resources As part of the World Environment Day celebration, together with the municipal primary school “St. Cyril and Methodius,” Sasa Mine organised an Eco-Bazaar entitled “We Re-use, We Preserve Nature.” At the stands set up in the school yard, numerous students from the school, children from the kindergarten, and users from the Day Centre for People with Special Needs showcased creative items made from recycled materials, which they created together with the Sasa Mine environmental protection team. The aim of this activity was to encourage youth initiative and to demonstrate how waste can be turned into a resource through innovation, art and responsible environmental behaviour. Proceeds from the items sold will be donated to support the Day Centre for People with Special Needs in Makedonska Kamenica. Youth Voices for Nature Ahead of World Environment Day, Sasa Mine hosted a Youth Open Forum that brought together young employees from SASA Mine, local students from the University “Goce Delchev” in Štip, and Day Centre users in Makedonska Kamenica. The forum served as a platform for dialogue, to share ideas and to propose concrete actions which young people can take to protect the environment. Through these activities, Sasa Mine continues to show that caring for the environment is not just a responsibility, but a long-term commitment to empowering communities, collaboration and protecting the planet for future generations. Makedonska Kamenica, June 5, 2025
Рудникот Саса инвестираше во нов систем за рано предупредување од елементарни непогоди
The Director of the Crisis Management Center (CMC), Stojanche Angelov, and the General Director of Sasa Mine, Christopher Colbourne, have signed an agreement outlining the procedures for cooperation, coordination, and communication between CMC and the mine. With this, the new early warning system at Sasa Mine has officially become part of the national alarm system. In addition to other technical components, the new early warning system at Sasa includes sound devices (sirens) installed at several strategic locations determined through an expert study. Its primary goal is to use audible signals to timely notify everyone, including residents of the settlements near the mine and those living along the Kamenicka River and in the town of Makedonska Kamenica, of potential risks from natural disasters and other hazards that could threaten human life, health, and material assets. To ensure the system’s reliability, periodic testing of the sirens is planned, which will be conducted according to established protocols and in coordination with the CMC. Residents of Makedonska Kamenica municipality will be timely informed through the media and other communication channels about the timing and duration of these tests. “We have witnessed that Sasa Mine has invested significantly in modern equipment and the implementation of the best industrial standards and practices to reduce the risks of incidents and crisis situations that could endanger the lives, health, and safety of employees and the surrounding population. The new early warning system at Sasa, which officially becomes part of the national alarm system today, is certainly part of these company efforts, which are commendable and represent a good example that other companies and institutions in the country should follow,” said CMC Director Stojanche Angelov during his visit to EWS control center at Sasa. The Mayor of Makedonska Kamenica, Dimcho Atanasovski, welcomed the installation of the new system, highlighting its preventive role in enhancing the safety of the entire local community. “We are proud that our municipality is the first in the country to have a functional early warning system for natural disasters. Together with the fire watchtower, which was recently built and put into operation, this system will enable early detection of potential risks to the safety of people and property – which, in many cases, is crucial in dealing with crisis situations caused by various natural disasters,” emphasized Mayor Atanasovski. He also expressed his gratitude to the Sasa Mine for its support and investment in the implementation of these important projects. The installation of the alarm system at Sasa aligns with the implementation of the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), created by the International Council on Mining and Metals and the United Nations Environment Program. This reflects the company’s ultimate goal of achieving zero harm to people and the environment. “This modern, early warning system is just one of the many activities and projects we have invested in to ensure the highest level of safety, which is the number one priority at Sasa. Caring for people, their safety and well-being -along with environmental protection and the prosperity of the local community, form the foundation of our sustainable development. That is why at Sasa, with the support of the Central Asia Metals (CAML) group, to which we belong, we will continue to implement such initiatives, consistently adhering to national regulations, global best practices in responsible mining,” stated the General Director of Sasa Mine, Christopher Colbourne. Since joining the Central Asia Metals (CAML) in November 2017, Sasa Mine has invested over $80 million in modern mining equipment, digitalisation of technical processes, execution of capital projects, safety improvements, raising standards and improved working conditions in the mine, as well as in the professional development of employees, thus confirming its commitment to sustainable mining. Makedonska Kamenica, March 28, 2025
Фондација САСА објавува повик за учество во Акцелераторска програма: „Започни ја својата бизнис авантура во Македонска Каменица“
The Sasa Foundation is launching a new initiative to promote the creation and acceleration of small sustainable businesses in the Makedonska Kamenica area. With this initiative the Sasa Foundation is announcing an open call for participation in the Accelerator Programme: “Start Your Business Adventure in Makedonska Kamenica.” The Sasa Foundation is inviting applications for its Business Acceleration Programme, designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs from Makedonska Kamenica. The initiative provides free training and mentoring, designed to develop the knowledge and skills of participants, thereby helping to establish sustainable businesses and stimulate economic growth in the region. Participants will benefit from comprehensive training in business and financial planning, including guidance on securing funding and implementing effective marketing strategies. Following the training, participants will also benefit from individual mentoring sessions with industry experts to help address any specific business challenges. The programme culminates a business plan competition, where participants can compete for financial support of 5,000 to 20,000 EUR. The grant programme will enable individuals, businesses, and NGOs to start new ventures, expand their resources, hire employees, and scale their operations faster than they might be able to do solely with their own funds. More information about the programme, including the application form, can be found on the Sasa Mine website via the following link: Акцелераторска Програма Makedonska Kamenica, February 21, 2025
Петто по ред зголемување на платите во Рудник Саса за последните три години
Despite all challenges related to rising operational costs and the volatility of global lead and zinc prices, approximately 790 employees at the Sasa Mine will once again receive higher salaries this year. The management team of Sasa has decided on a new salary increase of 10% of the base salary. This is the fifth consecutive increase in the past three years, which will take effect with the payment of the January salary. Together with the previous four increases, salaries at Sasa have risen by over 40% compared with their level before 2022. With this latest increase, Sasa has managed to maintain the positive difference between its salaries and the national average salary, a benchmark established after the entry of the Central Asia Metals (CAML) company into Sasa in 2017. Namely, with this increase, salaries at Sasa remain significantly higher than the national average and are also higher than the salaries of employees in all other mining companies in the country. At the same time, data show that from 2017 to date, salaries at Sasa have increased by more than 100%, while during the same period, according to official data from state institutions, the overall cost of living in the country has risen by about 40%. This demonstrates that with its salary increases to date, Sasa has successfully protected and enhanced the well-being of its employees despite rising prices and living costs in the country. “Despite the volatility of lead and zinc prices that we have faced in recent years, the continuous increase in operational costs, and the significant investments we are making to extend Sasa’s lifespan, we have still found a way to implement a substantial salary increase for our employees this year. We hope that this will serve as additional motivation for our employees, positively impacting the productivity and overall performance of the Sasa Mine, which are essential for its continued sustainable development and ensuring job security,” said Christopher Colbourne, Sasa General Director. Union representatives operating in Sasa have also been informed of all relevant data regarding Sasa’s operations, including the latest salary increase decision. Makedonska Kamenica, 11 February 2025
Едукативен проект на Рудник САСА за запознавање на најмладите со природните вредности и нивната заштита
Sasa Mine, in collaboration with a group of independent authors, has published a book for the youngest members of the community aimed at introducing them to the natural beauties of their surroundings. The goal of the book “Jasmina exploring the Osogovo Mountains – A story of acquainting, knowing and protecting natural values,” is to enrich children’s literature in the Macedonian language, focused on nature exploration and contributing to raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment. The book, primarily intended for children and students up to fifth grade, serves as an educational ecological text. Through an authentic narrative style, it guides readers through the natural features of the surroundings of Sasa Mine and the Osogovo Mountains, showcasing their natural beauty and biodiversity. The book also includes guidelines for safe navigation and appropriate behaviour in nature. Additionally, it describes the symbiosis between mining and nature, which has existed in this region for centuries, as well as the efforts undertaken by Sasa Mine to maintain this balance. The text of the book was written by biologist and educator Kiril Arsovski-Przho, and the illustrations were created by the young award-winning illustrator Sofija Sitnovska. Expressing gratitude to the entire team that worked on this educational project, Maria Stojanovska, the head of the Environmental Department at Sasa Mine, stated: “The idea for this project arose from the fact that awareness and love for natural beauty begin to develop from an early age. That is why we at Sasa Mine dedicated significant attention and effort to creating this beautifully illustrated book, which we believe children will love. We aim for it to enhance their knowledge about the nature that surrounds and sustains them while serving as a guide for how to treat it responsibly.” The majority of the copies of the book will be distributed by Sasa Mine to the municipal primary school, the kindergarten, and municipal and city libraries throughout the eastern region, as well as in other parts of the country. Copies of the book will also be delivered to the day centre for people with special needs in Makedonska Kamenica. This educational publication is yet another socially responsible initiative undertaken by Sasa Mine as part of its long-term strategy for sustainable development and community prosperity. Makedonska Kamenica, 27 January 2024
Министерката за енергетика, рударство и минерални суровини го посети рудникот Саса
The Minister of Energy, Mining and Minerals, Sanja Bozhinovska visited Sasa, the country’s largest underground lead and zinc mine. During her meeting with representatives of the Sasa management team, Minister Bozhinovska was briefed on the operations of Sasa, its investments in sustainable development, and the mine’s significance and contribution to the prosperity of the local community. During her visit to Sasa, Minister Bozhinovska also toured the underground mining areas and the new facilities, which are part of a series of significant capital investments designed to transform Sasa and ensure stable operations in the coming years. “Sasa Mine is an important part of the economic structure of our country. Supporting these projects is key to sustainable development and improving the living conditions of the local community. As a minister, my goal is to support mining practices that are sustainable and safe and to highlight the importance of innovation in mining. With the support of modern technologies, we aim to create mining that is both safe and sustainable,” stated Minister of Energy, Mining, and Minerals, Sanja Bozhinovska. To date, total investments in the capital projects, as well as the acquisition of modern mining equipment, digitalisation of technical processes, improvements in safety standards and working conditions in the mine, and professional development and education of employees, have amounted to $80 million. Sasa’s General Manager, Christopher Colbournе, said: “This visit by Minister Bozhinovska, who oversees an exceptionally important sector, holds special significance for us at Sasa. It is part of our overall communication and cooperation with official institutions at the central and local levels, which is vital for Sasa’s continued success and should be carried out in a fair and transparent manner. This will enable us to implement our investment plans and projects for safe, environmentally responsible and stable operation of Sasa in the years to come. In this way, Sasa will be able to continue on its path of success in the future, ensuring the well-being of its employees and their families, supporting the local community and contributing to the overall prosperity of the country.” The Sasa lead and zinc mine is the largest underground mine in North Macedonia, directly employing approximately 770 people, most of whom are residents of the local community. Since November 2017, Sasa has been part of Central Asia Metals, an international mining company quoted on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange (AIM: CAML). In its operations, Sasa implements the best international industrial practices and standards for quality management, environmental protection, and occupational health and safety. Over the past six years, Sasa’s successful operations have enabled the mine to pay over $85 million in various taxes, supporting national and municipal development, and improving the quality of life for people across the country. Additionally, through its Foundation for sustainable development, Sasa annually invests additional funds in the local community, supporting education, science, environmental protection, healthcare, sports and vulnerable social groups. Makedonska Kamenica, 25 January 2025
Рудник САСА и за овие празници ја продолжи традиција на поддршка за локалната заедница и своите вработени
In addition to its year-round support Sasa mine has undertaken several activities ahead of the New Year and Christmas holidays to reward its employees and contribute to spread holiday cheer throughout the local community. This year, all Sasa employees received a New Year bonus and appropriate gifts as a token of gratitude for their dedicated work throughout the year and their contribution to the company’s success. More than 600 New Year gift packages were distributed to children from the local kindergarten and the “Cyril and Methodius” primary school in Makedonska Kamenica. Additionally, donations of food packages and other essential items were provided to 227 socially vulnerable families in the local community, as well as support for the users of the Day Center for persons with disabilities in Makedonska Kamenica. Continuing a valued tradition, representatives from Sasa’s management team will visit the on-duty teams in local emergency medical service, the fire brigade, the police, and Sasa employees working on New Year’s Eve. During these visits, they will extend holiday greetings and deliver appropriate gifts in appreciation of their service. “These activities reflect our on-going commitment to the well-being of the community and our employees. We aim to share the joy of the holiday season with everyone, as we believe in the importance of support and solidarity,” said representatives from Sasa mine. Earlier this year, the mine donated a modern LED lighting system to the sports hall of the primary school in Makedonska Kamenica, which is also used by several local sports clubs. This donation is part of Sasa’s continued efforts to enhance local sports infrastructure and support the development of young athletic talent in the local community. Makedonska Kamenica, December 30, 2024
Рудник Саса ги избра најдобрите цртежи од годинешниот ликовен конкурс за деца
We are delighted to announce that this year’s children’s art drawing competition, organized by Sasa Mine received an impressive 129 drawings from 121 talented children from the Municipality of Makedonska Kamenica, as well as children of Sasa employees. The competition was open to all children aged 5 to 15, inviting them to creatively depict Sasa Mine and its significance to people, families and the local community. A panel of external experts, independent from Sasa Mine, carefully selected the 24 best drawings. These artworks will feature in the official Sasa Mine 2025 calendar and be showcased at other appropriate events. All participants will receive a certificate of appreciation and a drawing set, while the creators of the top drawings will also receive monetary prizes. Now in its third consecutive year, this initiative aims to encourage and support creativity and talent among young people while strengthening the bond between Sasa Mine and the local community. We are incredibly proud of all the participants and deeply grateful for their effort and enthusiasm. Sasa Mine remains committed to continue to organize similar activities in the future as part of our commitment to supporting young generations and contributing to the development of our community.
