Lumwana’s Super Pit Expansion Set to Elevate Zambia’s Copper Industry
Lumwana, a prominent copper mine in Zambia, is on the brink of a transformative expansion project that will position it among the world’s leading copper producers.
The development of the Super Pit expansion is poised to elevate Lumwana’s annual copper production to approximately 240,000 tonnes over a lifespan exceeding 30 years.
This ambitious endeavor is a pivotal element of the Zambian government’s strategic initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation’s copper sector within the next decade.
With an estimated project cost nearing $2 billion, construction is slated to commence later this year, marking a significant milestone in Zambia’s mining landscape.
Following Barrick’s strategic realignment in 2019, Lumwana has undergone a remarkable resurgence, emerging as a cornerstone asset in Barrick’s expanding copper portfolio.
Substantial restructuring and optimization efforts have propelled Lumwana’s operational performance to new heights. Notably, plant throughput surged by 23% in 2023, nearing a record 27 million tonnes per annum, while mining activities escalated by an impressive 53%.
The Super Pit expansion represents a monumental leap forward for Lumwana, with accelerated timelines now paving the way for first production anticipated in 2028.
This ambitious venture underscores Lumwana’s pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of Zambia’s copper industry, heralding a new era of growth and prosperity for the region.
