By John Chola
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has announced the relaunch of its Konkola Business Unit operations in Chililabombwe, signifying a major step towards revitalizing one of Zambia’s most important mining assets.
Backed by an ambitious US$700 million investment over five years, the project aims to unlock the full potential of the Konkola Mine and significantly boost copper production.
Speaking at the event, KCM Chief Operating Officer Malcolm Mewett revealed that more than half q8g0 of the US$1 billion pledged by Vedanta Resources Limited, KCM’s parent company, will be dedicated to the Konkola Mine.
This investment will focus on underground developments under the Konkola Deep Mine Project (KDMP), which houses one of the world’s largest high-grade copper ore deposits.
“This investment will enable us to achieve our target of producing 300,000 tonnes of copper per annum and contribute significantly to the Government’s vision of reaching three million tonnes of annual copper production within the next five years,” Mewett said.
The Konkola Mine is expected to play a critical role in Zambia’s mining sector, aligning with national strategic objectives to drive economic growth.
Representing the KCM Director of Mining, Konkola General Manager Cornelius Chimbanga reiterated the mine’s importance to the company’s operations and Zambia’s economy.
“We remain committed to making targeted investments that enhance the mine’s contribution to Zambia’s GDP while ensuring sustainable and profitable growth in the region,” Chimbanga noted.
Pivotal to Zambia’s Mining Ambitions
The KDMP, at the heart of KCM’s revitalization efforts, is positioned as a cornerstone in Zambia’s pursuit of increased copper production to three million tones by 2030.
As one of the largest copper producers in the country, KCM’s broader operations span Chingola, Chililabombwe, Kitwe, and Nampundwe.
The relaunch reflects Vedanta’s renewed focus on Zambia, with its US$1 billion pledge geared toward boosting the mining sector’s output and reinforcing its role as a global copper powerhouse.
KCM aims to ramp up production to 300,000 tonnes per year by 2030, solidifying its position as a key player in the industry.
KCM’s plans come at a time when Zambia is seeking to expand its mining output to meet growing global demand for copper, particularly as a critical mineral for the green energy transition.
With the relaunch of the Konkola Business Unit, KCM has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering economic development and achieving sustainable growth for Zambia’s mining sector.
