President Hakainde Hichilema on Monday officiated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kalengwa Mine in Mufumbwe District, marking a significant milestone for Zambia’s mining sector.
The mine had been closed for 46 years due to protracted legal battles, leaving local communities in poverty while valuable mineral resources remained untapped.
Speaking at the event, President Hichilema described the occasion as a proud moment for North-Western Province, Zambia, and the global mining community.
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“This mine remained closed for 46 years due to legal challenges, leaving the local population to endure acute poverty and deprivation. Today, we turn the page,” he said.
The President expressed regret over the prolonged delay, extending an apology to the people of North-Western Province and Zambia at large.
He commended the partnership between Euro Africa and Moxico Resources Limited, saying that the redevelopment of Kalengwa Mine underscored Zambia’s position as a premier mining investment destination.
He revealed that the mine had already created over 265 jobs, with a focus on youth employment, and was projected to generate an additional 500 jobs during its construction and operational phases.
Euro Africa Board Chairperson, Allan Davies, announced an initial investment of US$20 million in production.
He noted that the company had already procured machinery to commence mining development and copper stockpile processing.
Acting British High Commissioner to Zambia, Sam Waldock, hailed the investment as a testament to the strong cooperation between Zambia and the United Kingdom, particularly in mineral exploration.
“This partnership reflects our joint efforts to support Zambia’s economic revival,” Waldock said.
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