Zambia’s New $30 Million Copper and Cobalt Mine Set to Open in Mufulira District
A $30 million copper and cobalt mine is set to open in Mufulira District, located in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province.
Chilibwe Mine, which will be positioned off the Ndola-Mufulira road, is expected to operate for a lifespan of 10 years. The mine covers an area of 20 hectares and aims to produce 2,000 metric tonnes of copper and cobalt each month.
This initiative aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s goal to ramp up copper production to 3 million tonnes per annum by 2032.
In a recent scoping meeting in Mufulira, the mine’s management engaged key stakeholders to discuss the project’s potential environmental and social impacts. Norton Munkondya, Chilibwe Mine’s General Manager, emphasized the importance of community involvement.
Mufulira Mayor Taneili Kamanga urged mine management to prioritize the welfare of displaced residents. “We want the displaced individuals to benefit immediately; they need to receive something for free,” the mayor stated.
The mine is projected to create local employment opportunities, beginning with 500 jobs at its opening, with the promise of additional positions as the mine expands.
Investments like this are expected to enhance revenue for public services, benefit local communities, and foster opportunities for local businesses.
