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Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has announced renewed momentum in its push to revive the Konkola Deep Mine Project (KDMP) in Chililabombwe.
The project, which had stalled for many years due to underinvestment, is regarded as the future of Zambia’s copper mining industry because of its highly concentrated copper and cobalt ore bodies.
This was revealed by John Kunda, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at KCM, when President Hakainde Hichilema toured the KCM stand during the 13th edition of the Zambia Mining and Energy Conference in Kitwe on Thursday.
Kunda said the company had extended an invitation to President Hichilema to officiate at the first mining blast under KDMP, marking a significant milestone in exploiting one of the world’s richest copper ore bodies, with an estimated grade of 3.3 percent copper.
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The first blast at the 1,390-metre level (ML) represents a crucial step in unlocking deep ore reserves and advancing Zambia’s long-term copper production goals.
KCM stated that the historic blast underscored the strategic importance of KDMP to both the mine and the nation.
“The KDMP is a transformational investment project projected to exceed US$700 million. It forms part of KCM’s broader mine revitalisation and expansion strategy following the resumption of operations,” Kunda said.
Key developments under the project include extensive dewatering works, with a contract awarded to global mining contractor Mancala, and the installation of a high-speed underground rail system by Flint to enhance operational efficiency.
Kunda added that KCM had also unveiled modern, automated raise-boring machines—representing a major upgrade in underground mining technology aimed at improving safety, precision, and productivity.
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