Exciting Expansion at Zambia's Lumwana Copper Mine: A New Era Dawns
In early October, the vibrant landscape of Zambia’s mining sector was set ablaze with enthusiasm as President Hakainde Hichilema officially launched the Super Pit Expansion Project at Barrick’s Lumwana copper mine. This ambitious initiative aims to double copper production and extend the mine’s operational life until 2057—much to the delight of industry stakeholders and local communities alike.
Set against the backdrop of Zambia’s North-Western Province and just a stone’s throw from Solwezi, the Lumwana copper mine, which first captured attention in the early 1960s, is on the brink of a transformative phase. Following significant investments, the expansion project carries an estimated capital expenditure of billion and is slated to commence construction this year.
Historically, challenges such as low-grade copper deposits in the Chimiwungo and Malundwe areas and underdeveloped infrastructure inhibited the mine’s potential. However, concerted efforts by Equinox Minerals in the early 2000s redefined prospects, demonstrating the mine’s viability. A milestone was reached in 2009 when Lumwana officially entered commercial production, marking a new chapter in Zambia’s mining endeavors.
The bright future of Lumwana is further reinforced by Barrick Gold’s strategic management. Following Barrick’s merger with Randgold Resources in 2019, the mine has new life. In 2023, it recorded a remarkable throughput of 27 million tonnes (Mt), setting the stage for unprecedented growth. As Barrick’s President and Chief Executive, Mark Bristow, noted, the expansion “unlocks the potential to transform Lumwana into a long-life, high-yielding, Top 25 copper producer.”
This project is set to dramatically increase processing capacity, boosting plant throughput from 27 Mt to 52 Mt, and doubling annual copper production from 120,000 tonnes to an impressive average of 240,000 tonnes over its lifespan. Further development plans include ramping up total mining volumes from 150 Mt in 2024 to about 290 Mt per annum by 2030, necessitating a significant fleet expansion and a phased transition to electric shovels by 2031.
The community impact of this expansion cannot be overlooked. With approximately 4,400 employees, Lumwana is a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy. Since 2019, the mine has contributed more than .7 billion to local infrastructure and services through royalties, taxes, wages, and sourcing from Zambian suppliers. In 2023 alone, Lumwana invested a staggering 2 million, with a commendable 81% of procurement directed to local vendors.
As Zambia embarks on this exciting chapter in its mining narrative, the Lumwana Super Pit Expansion stands as a beacon of hope—not only for economic growth but also for technological advancement and community development.
Stay tuned for more updates as this ambitious project unfolds!
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