KCM Accelerates Recovery with US$600 Million Investment and Renewed Focus on Safety, Growth, and Copper Production
Konkola Copper Mines Invests US$600 Million in Revitalization as Leadership Targets 300,000 Tonnes Copper Output by 2031
Konkola Copper Mines Group CEO Deshnee Naidoo has praised employees for their commitment and dedication, expressing confidence in the company’s recovery and long-term growth strategy during a Town Hall Meeting held at the Mine Club.
The meeting focused on reinforcing safety standards, improving operational performance, and updating employees on the company’s ongoing transformation and revitalization agenda.
Leadership emphasizes safety and accountability
Addressing employees, Ms. Naidoo stressed the importance of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement in building a sustainable and profitable mining operation.
She also announced new safety initiatives aimed at strengthening workplace standards across KCM’s operations.
In addition, the company unveiled the KCM Aspire Programme, a leadership development initiative designed to identify and nurture internal talent for future leadership roles within the organization.
US$600 million invested in revitalization programme
Acting CEO Praveen Sharma highlighted the company’s recent operational progress and reaffirmed KCM’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s national target of producing 3 million tonnes of copper annually by 2031.
KCM itself is targeting annual production of 300,000 tonnes as part of that broader national strategy.
Mr. Sharma disclosed that the company has invested approximately US$600 million over the past two years under a wider US$1 billion revitalization programme. Major investments include:
- The Konkola Deep Mining Project
- Rehabilitation of underground infrastructure
- Acquisition of new mining equipment
- Rail infrastructure upgrades
He emphasized that employee safety remains the company’s highest priority and stated that production targets would never take precedence over worker well-being.
Community investment and corporate social responsibility
KCM also outlined its ongoing community development and corporate social responsibility initiatives, which are valued at approximately US$20 million annually.
These programmes include:
- Clean water projects
- Malaria prevention and rollback initiatives
- Fisheries and livestock support programmes
- Continued community development investments
Management said the initiatives reflect the company’s broader commitment to supporting local communities alongside its mining operations.
Employees recognized for operational achievements
The Town Hall concluded with management congratulating employees on several recent operational milestones, including the successful Chingola B blast operation.
Leadership encouraged staff to maintain strong focus on safety, discipline, teamwork, and operational excellence as the company continues its recovery and expansion efforts.
