President Hichilema Commissions Expansion of Mimbula Copper Mine Following $180 Million Investment

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially commissioned the Mimbula Copper Mine in Chingola and called on local residents to safeguard the mine.

 The president emphasized that the mine, which has created 900 jobs, is crucial for revenue generation, job creation, and stabilizing the kwacha. He also urged workers to engage in dialogue to raise any grievances.

During the launch, President Hichilema commended the management of Mimbula, which is owned by British Company Moxico Investments, for taking care of their workers.

He also encouraged foreign investors to work with local suppliers and partner with locals.

The president noted that Mimbula's expansion plan to increase production from the current 10,000 tonnes to 56,000 tones is vital for national development and the development of surrounding communities.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe stated that although Zambia's economy, like many others globally, has faced challenges, including in the mining sector, for the past ten years, the current government is working to resolve these issues.

Mr. Kabuswe encouraged all mining investors to make meaningful investments to ensure the effective economic development of Zambia.

British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, expressed his pleasure with the progress made by the mine so far.

Mr. Woolley stated that Moxico will invest an additional $100 million, bringing the firm's cumulative investment to $180 million. He also highlighted the close ties between the British and Zambian governments and the significant investments that British companies have made in Zambia's green initiatives.

Meanwhile, Chingola Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga praised the mine for creating jobs and implementing various projects beyond Chingola. He asked Mimbula Minerals to prioritize Chingola residents when employing workers to promote ownership.

Mine Workers Union of Zambia -MUZ- President Joseph Chewe acknowledged that Mimbula has given workers in Chingola an opportunity to work and called for all workers to receive decent jobs and salaries.

 Mimbula's Chief Executive Officer, Allan Davies, thanked the government for its continued support to the mine and announced plans for expansion at a new site.

The commissioning of the Mimbula Copper Mine in Chingola is a positive step towards national development and job creation, and the government's commitment to resolving the challenges facing the mining sector is commendable.