KCM Engages Australian Firm as Konkola Deep Mining Project Gains Momentum

Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has ramped up operations at the Konkola Deep Mining Project (KDMP) in Chililabombwe, engaging two specialist contractors to advance the development of one of Africa's most promising underground copper assets.

KCM Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Dr John Kunda has confirmed that Australian mining firm Mancala has been brought on board to carry out dewatering works at the site, a crucial step in making the deep underground workings accessible for full-scale production.

A second contractor, Flint, is meanwhile developing a high-speed rail system that will be used to transport materials from deep underground to the surface more efficiently.

Dr Kunda, speaking to ZNBC News from Cape Town, South Africa, said the company is pursuing several additional investments aimed at maximising the returns from KDMP's underground operations.

The project is anchored by one of Zambia's deepest mining shafts at 1,505 metres, sitting atop one of the highest-grade copper deposits found anywhere in the world. The site holds estimated reserves exceeding 291 million tonnes of ore, giving it a projected operational life of at least 50 years.

The accelerated development of KDMP is expected to play a key role in boosting Zambia's copper output as the country targets increased production from the Copperbelt.