MUFUMBWE -President Hakainde Hichilema has delivered yet another resounding achievement for the people of Zambia by reopening Kalengwa Mine in Mufumbwe, Northwestern Province.
Dormant for 46 years, the mine has now been handed over to a new investor,Euro Africa Company, signifying a critical milestone in the New Dawn government’s mission to revitalize the mining sector and empower citizens.
Addressing a jubilant crowd at the launch, President Hichilema reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the promises he made to the people of Mufumbwe during his campaign.
“Today, I am very much delighted that I have fulfilled what I promised you during the campaign that evening when we gathered here—that once you elect me, I will ensure that Kalengwa Mine is brought back to life. Here it is today,” he declared.
The President criticized past governments for failing to harness Zambia’s mineral wealth for the benefit of the people, pledging that his administration would not allow such neglect to continue.
“As your leader, I will not allow people to continue living in poverty while you are sitting on mineral wealth,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for equitable resource management.
He called on Euro Africa Company to prioritize employing local people, invest in their skills, and uplift the community through sustainable development programs.
President Hichilema also urged the people of Mufumbwe to work hard and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the mine, emphasizing that their efforts would contribute to both local and national development.
He further assured residents that the mine’s management would support them with contracts and business opportunities, but cautioned against dishonesty in the supply chain.
The President commended the people of Kalengwa for their resilience in protecting the mine during its years of inactivity, a testament to their dedication to preserving their natural resources.
Minister of Mines and Mineral Development Paul Kabuswe hailed the reopening as evidence of the New Dawn government’s commitment to the mining sector.
“Thanks to your leadership, Mr. President, the target of 3 million tonnes of mineral production is within reach,” Kabuswe stated, reinforcing the administration’s goal of making Zambia a global mining hub.
Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane emphasized the economic significance of reopening Kalengwa Mine, pointing out that revenues from the mining sector would fund critical areas such as education and health.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for leading Zambia’s economy in the right direction. We are optimistic that this growth will surpass all expectations,” he said.
Mufumbwe Member of Parliament Eliot Kamondo expressed profound gratitude to President Hichilema for prioritizing the people of Mufumbwe and ensuring they directly benefit from the reopening of Kalengwa Mine.
Kamondo urged the mine’s management to work closely with the local community, emphasizing the need for job creation and contract opportunities to transform the constituency.
Euro Africa Chief Executive Officer Alan Davies praised the mutual understanding between the government and the company, revealing that $20 million would be invested into the project, with operations set to begin early next year.
Since taking office in 2021, President Hichilema has spearheaded the reopening of five major mines in Northwestern Province: Kansanshi Mine, Lumwana Mine, Kalumbila Mine, Kasenseli Gold Mine, and now Kalengwa Mine.
This accomplishment underscores the New Dawn government’s commitment to transforming Zambia’s economy and ensuring the country’s resources serve its people.