Mining Created 30,000 Jobs in Northwestern Province in 2024
The mining sector generated an additional 30,000 jobs in Northwestern Province last year as major projects, including the $2 billion expansion at Barrick’s Lumwana superpit, got under way.
North Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu praised the growth of the mining sector in his patch, explaining that some 27,000 jobs had been contributed by just three major projects: Barrick’s Lumwana mine, Kansenseli Gold Mine, and Kalengwa Mine, which was reopened by President Hichilema in November after being closed for 46 years.
The remaining 3,000 jobs were generated by smaller mining operations in the Province.
Looking to the future, the minister was even more optimistic, “2025, this year only, North Western Province will be able to produce 810,000 metric tonnes [of copper]”.
Despite challenging economic headwinds, since taking office President Hakainde Hichilema has been steadfast in his determination to create jobs for ordinary Zambians and help them put food on the table.
Earlier this month, Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane announced that more than 40,000 jobs were created last year, far outstripping national employment projections.
Additionally, the Ministry of Mines announced that national copper production in 2025 is expected to surpass 1 million tonnes, contributing to the President’s ambitious goal of 3 million tonnes of copper annually by 2031.