Sasa Mine Invests in a new Early Warning System for natural disasters
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
The Sasa Foundation Announces a call for Participation in the Accelerator Programme: “Start Your Business Adventure in Makedonska Kamenica”
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
Fifth consecutive salary increase at Sasa Mine in the past three years
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
Educational project by Sasa Mine to introduce the youngest to natural values and their preservation
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
The Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources visited the Sasa mine
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
Sasa mine continues its tradition of supporting the local community and its employees during these holidays
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
Sasa Mine Announces the Selection of the Best Drawings from This Year’s Children’s Art Competition
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.
The Sasa mine will work with the competent institutions to demonstrate that is not responsible for the death of fish in the Kalimanci lake
Following published information in the public related to the occurrence of dead fish in Lake Kalimantci on August 6 this year, the Sasa mine is prepared to submit all facts and data to the competent institutions throughout possible further procedure to determine the true cause of previous mentioned phenomenon. We emphasize that the occurrence of dead fish in Lake Kalimanci could result from various potential causes unrelated to the current operations of the Sasa mine. In Sasa mine, both regular and extraordinary inspections are carried out by competent state institutions. During these inspections, it has been confirmed that the Sasa mine operates in accordance with its A integrated environmental permit.
Open call for participation to children art competition 2024
For the third consecutive year, the SASA Mine announces a public call for participation in a children’s art drawing competition. The theme for drawings this year is the operation of the mine and its significance for people, families and the local community. All children aged between 5 and 15, who live in the municipality of Makedonska Kamenica, or with parents employed at Sasa, are eligible for the competition. Artworks should be submitted no later than November 22, 2024 to the Office for Communication with the Community of SASA Mine (28 “Rudarska” Street, Makedonska Kamenica). SASA employees may submit their children’s work to the Personnel Office. The following information should be written on the back of the drawing: name and surname of the child; name and surname of the parent/guardian; date of birth of the child; residential address and contact telephone number. By submitting their drawing, the child and their parent/guardian automatically give permission for it to be used by SASA. No later than mid-December, a special external committee, made up of independent, non-SASA staff members, will select the best drawings that committee members believe best represent the SASA mine and its contribution to people and the community. Each winner will be awarded with 3,000 denars. The winning artwork will feature in the 2025 SASA calendar and in other communications.
Eco-campaign “Recycle and Win” at SASA Mine
More than 16,000 plastic bottles and cans were collected during the “Recycle and Win” eco-campaign organised by the Environmental Department at SASA Mine ahead of Miners’ Day. The funds raised from recycling the plastic bottles and cans collected by the local community, supplemented by contributions from SASA Mine and its employees, were donated to the Special Needs Daycare in Makedonska Kamenica, adding a charitable aspect to the campaign. The local population, especially the youngest members of the community, participated enthusiastically in the “Recycle and Win” campaign. On the day of the event, they brought a large number of plastic bottles and cans and received appropriate gifts in return. The collected materials were recycled through SASA Mine’s vending machines, and the funds generated from the recycling process, which were doubled by a donation from SASA Mine’s management, were used to purchase supplies for the Special Needs Daycare in Makedonska Kamenica. Additionally, a number of SASA Mine employees supported the eco-campaign with voluntary individual donations. These contributions helped purchase new armchairs, tables and shelves for the Special Needs Daycare in Makedonska Kamenica, further improving the conditions for those who live there and require care. “We are extremely pleased with the success of this eco-action campaign. Its implementation allowed us to achieve several goals that SASA Mine and its employees are committed to, including raising environmental awareness and providing support for people in the community, especially those most in need. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated and supported the eco-campaign, demonstrating both high environmental awareness and, care for the members of our community who rely on the services of the Special Needs Daycare in Makedonska Kamenica,” said Marija Stojanovska, Head of the Environmental Department at SASA Mine. This eco-campaign, with its humanitarian aspect, is one of many socially responsible activities continuously organised by SASA Mine, contributing to both environmental protection and the prosperity of the local community.
