Traditional leaders in North-Western Province have emphasized the importance of ensuring that benefits from the Kansanshi Mine S3 expansion project are fairly shared with local communities.
Chief Mulonga highlighted that the substantial investment by First Quantum Minerals (FQM) demonstrates that North-Western Province will continue to be a key player in Zambia’s mining industry.
During a meeting with President Hakainde Hichilema in Solwezi, Chief Mulonga appealed for presidential intervention in the land allocation process for the proposed Central Business District (CBD) in Mushindamo District.
President Hichilema responded by urging traditional leaders to swiftly resolve the Mushindamo CBD impasse, stressing that unlocking land for development would enable the government to implement vital infrastructure projects in the district.
The Head of State further encouraged the traditional leaders to establish trusts as a way of ensuring that they directly benefit from mining activities in the province.
At the same time, a Copperbelt University mining expert has hailed the newly commissioned Kansanshi S3 expansion project as a major boost toward Zambia’s goal of producing 3 million metric tons of copper annually by 2030.
Dr. Edward Chisakulo said the project would not only increase copper production, but also provide employment opportunities for Zambians.
Speaking in a phone interview with ZNBC News in Kitwe, Dr. Chisakulo pointed out that with rising global demand for copper, Zambia has the capacity to produce around one million metric tons of copper by the end of 2025.
Economist Aaron Sikombe has also noted that the Kansanshi S3 expansion project will positively impact the national economy, adding that it has the potential to stimulate growth and attract further investment.
