Electricity and labour are the most important elements in the cost structure of the average Zambian copper mine, and together account for up to 50% of total operating costs.
It means that even small increases in these two cost components...
A low metal-price environment such as the current one understandably leads mining companies to be cautious, cut spending and rein in expansion; however, that very behaviour means they run the risk of not being ready when the upswing comes.
Being...
Because of the huge amount of work, heat and processing required to produce metals, mining is one of the most energy-intensive industries in the world and accounts for an estimated 5% of global electricity consumption.
In all mining countries, the...
The 24-year nationalisation period (1973-1997), during which Zambia’s mining industry was in government hands, has left a noteworthy legacy – a reservoir of high-level mining skills that has served the country well.
One of the crowning achievements of that era...
The first indication that Kalumbila is a town with its eye on the future is when you land at the airport: although the airport is in the very early stages of construction and doesn’t even have a terminal building...
It accounts for less than 2% of annual copper production, yet Chibuluma Mine, situated on the Copperbelt, is one of Zambia’s most successful mines in safety, productivity and profitability.
Chibuluma Mine has had “only” one fatality in eight years. Its...
The new $2,1-billion Sentinel mine, in the remotest corner of Zambia’s North-Western province, is the mining industry’s most-ambitious venture ever, and the single-largest upfront infrastructure investment in Zambia since the Kariba dam.
And by virtue of its technological sophistication, it...
Barrick Lumwana is a massive open-pit mine, about 100 km from Solwezi. The mineral deposit is very large, but relatively low-grade – the ore contains just 0.58% copper.
Because of this, Barrick Lumwana has to dig up a lot more material...
Four big mines dominate Zambia’s copper production, complemented by several smaller players who also play an important role. All the mines are backed by a wide range of respected international investors.
The Zambian government, through its investment-holding company ZCCM-IH, is...
Mining and aviation are worlds apart, yet they share a common feature – both are highly dangerous, and need skilled professionals who know how to handle life-threatening situations.
Airline pilots spend hundreds of hours training on simulators, learning to handle...
