Luanshya Mine set for August 2026 production restart after major dewatering milestone

The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has announced that Luanshya Mine, which has recently completed its dewatering process, is scheduled to resume production at its upper mine in August 2026, marking a significant step in the revival of one of Zambia’s key mining assets.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Principal Public Relations Officer, Kalani Muchima, the Ministry disclosed that production at the lower mine is expected to commence in 2029 under the ongoing redevelopment of the 28 Shaft being undertaken by China Luanshya Mine (CLM).

The redevelopment of the New Luanshya Mines has been structured in two phases, with phase one focusing on the upper mine and phase two covering the lower mine.

According to the latest update submitted to the Ministry as of 27 March 2026, approximately 87.9 million cubic metres of water had been pumped out of the mine.

This milestone has cleared the way for infrastructure development and construction works that are currently underway.

Muchima noted that this progress represented a major achievement in the revitalisation of mining operations in Luanshya and underscored government’s commitment to unlocking Zambia’s mineral potential in a sustainable and structured manner.

“Once fully operational, the New Luanshya Mine is projected to produce approximately 100,000 tonnes of copper annually by 2030. This output is expected to significantly contribute to Zambia’s national copper production targets and strengthen the country’s position in the global copper market,” he said.

He said this would stimulate economic activity in Luanshya and surrounding communities.

The redevelopment of the 28 Shaft is said to represent an estimated investment of about US$710 million, which includes new shaft systems, a concentrator plant, and supporting infrastructure.

“To date, more than US$75 million has already been invested in the project. In addition, China Luanshya Mine (CLM) is reportedly exploring potential collaboration with ZCCM Investments Holdings to develop mining opportunities in newly acquired areas within the region,” he said.

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