Mining Expert Urges President HH to Prioritize Revamping Mopani and KCM
Stakeholders in Zambia’s mining sector have expressed disappointment with President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent press briefing, stating that it lacked substantial updates on Mopani Copper Mines (MCM), Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), and the overall mining sector. A mining expert emphasizes the need for focused attention on Mopani and KCM, highlighting their significance in the country’s economic recovery.
During the press briefing at state house, President Hichilema acknowledges that the government has yet to resolve the issues surrounding Mopani and KCM but assures that actions are being taken to address the situation.
In an interview mining expert Edward Simukonda expresses the hope of stakeholders that the President would announce the resolution of the Mopani and KCM issues.
Simukonda emphasized the negative impact of the underperformance of these mines on the mining sector and the nation as a whole, raising concerns about achieving the targeted 3 million metric tons copper production by 2031.
Simukonda notes the disappointment felt by Copperbelt residents who were anticipating positive news regarding the resolution of the two mines. He characterizes the press conference as a collection of promises, which fails to impress mining stakeholders.
The prolonged delay in resolving the future of the two mines negatively affects approximately 1 million people in five major towns in Zambia.
