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After more than 15 years of anticipation, the Kashime Copper Mine project in the Upper Lusemfwa area of Mkushi District has reportedly received authorisation to commence mining operations.
The project is spearheaded by Zambian-owned Mimosa Resources, with First Quantum Minerals (FQM) providing financial support and undertaking further exploration within the licence area.
According to a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday, Mimosa Resources in September 2024 secured an initial US$3 million investment from Australian Stock Exchange-listed Zeta Resources.
The funds were designated for final feasibility studies and preparatory development work at the Central Province site.
Mkushi Mayor, Melson Chilemu, hailed the authorisation as a landmark achievement for the district and the country.
“On behalf of the people of Mkushi and the nation, I extend our gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for once again hearing our cry,” Chilemu said.
“This authorisation, achieved after more than 15 years of struggle, is a testament to perseverance.”
He also thanked His Royal Highness Chief Chitina, Mimosa Resources, the Mkushi Mining Federation, Elias Chipimo Associates, and others who supported the initiative.
“It was not an easy path, but this approval marks the beginning of more business, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people,” he added.
Mimosa Resources Executive Chairman, Jordan Soko, said the project demonstrated the potential for Zambians to lead and own mining ventures that contribute to national development.
“We are committed to developing this resource responsibly, creating value for local communities in Mkushi, and contributing significantly to Zambia’s copper production goals,” Soko said, adding “This project represents a shared vision for growth and opportunity in the mining sector.”
FQM Country Director, Anthony Mukutuma, said the company was proud to support a Zambian-owned initiative of such scale.
“The Kashime project aligns with our goal of advancing Zambia’s mining sector,” Mukutuma said. “It’s gratifying to see a local company take the lead in developing a project of this magnitude.”
The development of the mine and associated processing facilities is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits for local communities, Mkushi town, and the broader Zambian economy.
It will also support the country’s ambition of reaching 3 million tonnes of copper production annually in the medium term.
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