Mopani Copper Mines Expands Operations with New Shafts to Boost Production
Mopani Copper Mines is sinking three new shafts at its Kitwe and Mufulira sites, aiming to increase annual copper production to 225,000 tonnes upon completion.
Speaking at the 96th Agricultural and Commercial Show, Mopani’s Public Relations Officer, Lillian Musenge, highlighted that one of the key challenges for the mine is its aging infrastructure.
“Creating a Competitive Future” is this year’s theme for the Agricultural and Commercial Show. To achieve this, we must develop strategies and innovations to address current and anticipated challenges while seizing opportunities.
For Mopani, old infrastructure is a significant challenge. Our operations began in the 1930s, and the last time we sunk a shaft was around 1972,” she explained.
The company is undertaking expansion projects by sinking two shafts in Kitwe and one in Mufulira. Once completed, these shafts are expected to produce over eight million tonnes of copper annually, increasing finished copper output from 80,000 tonnes to 225,000 tonnes per year, contributing to the national target of three million tonnes.
Musenge emphasized that the new shafts will incorporate advanced, energy-efficient technology.
“While old infrastructure presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for expansion. The new shafts will extend the mine’s life by at least 30 years and reduce production costs by accessing resources more efficiently.
These modern shafts will feature innovative systems, including a technology called IEGT, which retains power in its system, allowing us to save about 30% on power usage.
Addressing power deficits is crucial, and establishing these new shafts will help mitigate this issue. We are also exploring alternative power solutions, including solar energy, through discussions with various stakeholders,” she added.
Furthermore, Musenge reaffirmed Mopani’s commitment to promoting value addition in copper production.
“While our final product is copper cathode, there is much more we can do beyond exporting it. We are collaborating with local companies Neelkanth and ZAMEFA in copper cable manufacturing.
We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with both companies to retain 20% of the production for our own sales,” said Musenge.
