In August 2015 when First Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel mine came online, it represented the single-largest upfront infrastructure investment in Zambia since the Kariba Dam. It took a sum of US$2.1 billion to get the mine to the point of being operational. Between now and then, hundreds of thousands of tonnes of copper have come from the Kalumbila-based open-pit mine, with production reaching a record 251,216 tonnes in 2020, up 14% from 2019.
Mining operations rely on enormous, highly-specialised trucks to transport the earth that stands between them and the red metal beneath the surface. Take a look behind the scenes at some of the mind-blowing equipment that makes this all possible, and let the spectacle that is open-pit mining entertain and enthral you in this short video.
