Chinese firms reaffirm commitment to Zambia’s copper growth By BUUMBA CHIMBULU

THE Chinese Mining Enterprises Association in Zambia has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to supporting the country’s goal of producing three million tonnes of copper annually by 2031, pledging sustained investment, technological innovation, and environmental stewardship.
The chairperson, Mr Wang Jingjun said the commitment reflects a shared vision for a modern, sustainable, and technologically advanced mining sector that benefits both the economy and local communities.
Mr Wang highlighted that in 1998, Chinese investors reopened the NFCA mine, which had been dormant for 13 years.
Since then, the enterprise has invested US$1.4 billion in exploration and new mining projects, boosting annual copper output from 24, 000 tonnes at inception to 80, 000 tonnes today, while expanding its workforce to over 6, 200 employees.
He said NFCA was now implementing an expansion plan to raise production to over 100, 000 tonnes annually by 2031, aligning with the government’s copper production strategy.
He was speaking at the recent 2025 Zambia Mining and Investment Conference in Lusaka.
“Sustainable mining requires long-term investment, technological innovation, and a strong commitment to environmental protection,” Mr Wang said.
He observed that traditional mining methods are often inefficient and pose significant safety risks, and noted that NFCA had become the first mining company in Zambia to deploy automated load-haul-dump systems in its underground operations.
The system allows remote operation from the surface, with just two machines capable of producing up to 800, 000 tonnes of ore per year.
Mr Wang also revealed that the company had introduced the world’s most advanced Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology to enhance excavation efficiency and safety.
On environmental management, he said NFCA had adopted paste backfill technology, an eco-friendly method that reduces waste rock, prevents ground subsidence, and minimises land used for tailings storage.
He also cited progress on the Shaft 28 dewatering project, officially launched by President Hakainde Hichilema in May 2024, aimed at reclaiming a flooded mining area that had been dormant for over two decades.
“We are pleased to report that this project, made possible by a customised submersible pump, is expected to be completed before the end of this year,” he said.
Mr Wang underscored the need for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate mineral exploration and attract new investment, saying such efforts would secure Zambia’s long-term resource base and support higher production levels.
He also called for enhanced skills development through strengthened education and training in mining engineering, geological exploration, and electrical and mechanical disciplines.
“We are ready to work with government and local institutions to establish mining training centres and technical bases to support Zambia’s industrialisation and job creation agenda,” Mr Wang said.
Mr Wang also emphasised that stable and reliable energy supply remains a critical pillar in achieving the country’s three-million-tonne production target, urging more investment in power infrastructure and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to Zambia’s sustainable mining growth, saying Chinese mining firms stand ready to contribute to the country’s long-term development and industrialisation goals.