Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has embarked on a major township road rehabilitation initiative worth US$8.1 million, covering 15.1 kilometres across Chililabombwe, Chingola, and Shibuyunji districts.
The project, part of KCM’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, aims to enhance local infrastructure, improve connectivity, and stimulate economic activity in host communities.
Of the total works, 3.9 km will be rehabilitated in Chililabombwe, 4.4 km in Chingola, and 7.1 km in Shibuyunji. Key routes include Chililabombwe’s Kamenza Way and Konkola Road, Chingola’s 3rd, 4th and 5th Streets, George Ngoma Road, and Nampundwe’s Off Farmers Road.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Chililabombwe, was officiated by Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Charles Milupi, who commended KCM, its parent company Vedanta Resources, and the Zambian government for their partnership in improving community livelihoods.
“Public-private partnerships like this are critical to driving sustainable infrastructure development. The collaboration between KCM and government demonstrates what can be achieved for both communities and the nation,” said Hon. Milupi.
Mines and Minerals Development Minister and Chililabombwe Member of Parliament, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, reaffirmed that Vedanta and KCM are committed to fulfilling promises made in their shareholders’ agreement, which include increased investment in community projects and ramped-up mining production.
KCM Chief Operating Officer, Malcolm Mewett, emphasized the significance of the project in addressing critical infrastructure needs.
“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony marks our largest single investment in improving living standards in KCM’s operational areas. This initiative forms part of our broader commitment to invest $20 million annually in communities, ensuring direct benefits to the local population,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Zambia and President Hakainde Hichilema for their continued support in fostering community development.
KCM Community Development Trust Board Chairperson, Ms. Chearyp Sokoni, described the initiative as a flagship project that will set the stage for future developments, including the construction of educational facilities and the upgrade of the Trades Training Centre in Kitwe.
This investment underscores KCM’s renewed focus on strengthening its partnership with communities, aligning mining operations with inclusive and sustainable development in Zambia.
