Kansanshi Mine Expansion: Powering Zambia’s Future

By Author: Mulenga Sakala
Total Articles: 6
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Zambia’s copper industry is entering a new era, and at the heart of it lies Kansanshi Mine. Through a landmark expansion project, the mine is set to double its ore processing capacity, a move that promises not only to strengthen Zambia’s economy but also to transform the lives of thousands of people who depend on the sector.

Doubling Capacity, Doubling Impact

The expansion, known as the S3 Project, will see Kansanshi’s processing power increase from roughly 28 million tonnes of ore per year to more than 53 million tonnes. This leap forward involves the installation of a new sulphide processing plant, purpose-built to meet modern demands and incorporate advanced technology.

For Zambia, this is not just about boosting output—it is about building resilience. As ore grades decline in existing pits, this investment ensures that Kansanshi will remain productive and competitive well into the 2040s.

More Than Just Mining

Behind the steel and machinery, the expansion tells a human story. The project has created nearly a thousand permanent jobs, with countless more opportunities tied to contractors, ...
... suppliers, and small businesses that service the mine. From catering to logistics, from equipment maintenance to local transport services, the mine’s growth reverberates across the community.

Local businesses are thriving too. Over 400 Zambian-owned companies are now linked to Kansanshi’s supply chain, a clear sign that mining can spark entrepreneurship and keep wealth circulating within the country.

A Boost for Zambia’s Ambitions

The timing of this expansion could not be better. The world is hungry for copper—a critical mineral for renewable energy, electric vehicles, and global infrastructure. Zambia has set its sights on producing three million tonnes of copper annually by the early 2030s, and Kansanshi’s expansion is a cornerstone of that vision.

By positioning itself as a reliable, large-scale producer, Zambia not only boosts export earnings but also cements its role as a key player in the global energy transition.

Building for the Long Term

The new South-East Dome Pit is another major part of the expansion. This development ensures that Kansanshi will continue to deliver strong production for decades, sustaining Zambia’s economy and helping communities plan for the future with confidence.

Crucially, this isn’t growth at any cost. The mine is adopting world-class environmental safeguards—improving water recycling, reducing emissions, and incorporating energy-efficient systems. Investments in renewable power and electric-assisted mining trucks reflect a serious commitment to sustainability, ensuring that progress today does not compromise tomorrow.

A Symbol of Hope

When we talk about mining, it’s easy to focus only on figures, tonnes, and profits. But the Kansanshi expansion is also about people. It is about the worker who secures a stable job, the small business owner who wins a supply contract, and the student whose school will be built with revenues from copper exports.

This project represents a shared future—one where Zambia’s resources are harnessed to uplift its people while contributing to the world’s shift towards cleaner energy.

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