GOVT’S PROJECTED OVER 980,000 COPPER OUTPUT IN 2024 TOO AMBITIOUS

Social anthropologist dr. James Musonda has described government’s prediction of over 980,000 copper output in 2024 as overly ambitious considering the ongoing uncertainties surrounding Konkola Copper Mines-KCM-.

According to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Zambia expects to produce 980,165 tonnes of copper this year, with Mopani and KCM contributing 57,890 tonnes and 90,537 tonnes, respectively.

In an interview, Dr. Musonda believes the 980,000 is attainable if both mines meet their respective estimates, but is concerned that this will not be achieved because KCM has not yet guaranteed production due to various impediments.

He contends that the mine still needs to navigate all of the existing legal challenges and conduct a forensic assessment of the company’s status, debt, and vulnerabilities before it can resume production.

Dr. Musonda adds that Mopani and KCM must begin production immediately to contribute to the envisaged increased national copper output figures and thereby assist government to meet its target this year.