KCM restarts smelter after 106-day rehabilitation with first copper anode
KCM restarts smelter after 106-day shutdown following US$40 million rehabilitation
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has restarted its smelting operations after a 106-day shutdown, marking the return to production with the casting of its first copper anode following an extensive rehabilitation and refurbishment programme.
The restart marks a significant milestone for the Zambian copper producer as it moves from major maintenance, and rehabilitation works back to full operational focus at the smelter.
KCM Deputy Chief Executive Officer Satish Kumar congratulated employees, contractors and business partners for completing the shutdown safely, while stressing the importance of maintaining strong safety standards as operations resume.
He said disciplined operations and maintenance would be critical to protecting the US$40 million investment made during the shutdown, improving equipment reliability and ensuring the smelter operates efficiently at its current 300,000-tonne capacity.
KCM is working towards a longer-term ambition of increasing its copper production capacity to 500,000 tonnes.
Extensive rehabilitation programme
The shutdown was initially scheduled to last 60 days, but was extended to allow additional rehabilitation and refurbishment work to be carried out across critical sections of the smelter.
The expanded programme was supported by the US$40 million investment, which was aimed at improving the facility’s reliability, efficiency and sustainability.
Speaking during the first anode casting ceremony, KCM Director of Smelter and Refinery Yorum Kapai described the shutdown as one of the most extensive rehabilitation programmes undertaken at the facility.
He highlighted the scale of the rebuilding and refurbishment work, as well as the collaboration between KCM employees, business partners, consultants and technical specialists involved in preparing the smelter for its return to production.
The first anode therefore represents more than the restart of production, marking the transition from a major rehabilitation programme into a new phase of sustained operations.
Safety remains a priority
With the smelter back in operation, KCM is placing renewed emphasis on safety, operational discipline and equipment reliability.
Deputy Chief Safety and Sustainability Officer for Health, Safety and Environment Lloyd Moomba urged employees and business partners to make sound decisions, follow established procedures and adhere to critical risk controls.
He stressed that decisions made during day-to-day operations can have consequences for people, equipment and production, making individual accountability particularly important as the facility moves into its next phase.
The restart was also marked by a dedication and benediction of the smelter operations, led by Pastor Emmanuel Mudia, who offered prayers for the safety and wellbeing of employees and other stakeholders working at the facility.
With the first copper anode now cast, KCM’s focus shifts towards maintaining safe, reliable and efficient smelting operations, while building on the improvements delivered during the 106-day shutdown.
The rehabilitation forms part of KCM’s broader investment programme as the company works to strengthen its operations and increase copper production in line with its longer-term growth ambitions.
