PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema is today expected in Solwezi to commission the US$1.2 billion S3 expansion project at First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi Mine, a development set to extend the life of the mine by 25 years and create jobs.
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The S3 expansion, one of the largest investments in Zambia’s mining sector in recent years, involves enlarging the Kansanshi mining pit, constructing a new processing plant and expanding the onsite smelter.
Officials say the project will significantly boost copper output, strengthening the country’s position as a leading copper producer.
Speaking to journalists yesterday, Kansanshi Mine PLC corporate affairs superintendent Ryan Ellis explained that the S3 expansion is a natural step for the mine’s development and a critical step for the mine’s sustainability.
“Historically, Kansanshi mined mostly copper oxide, but as we dig deeper, we encounter copper sulfide, which requires different processing. To remain viable, this investment was necessary,” Ellis explained.
He further noted that many jobs created during the construction phase will transition to operational roles as the plant starts operations.
According to him, the plant requires 900 employees to run at peak production.
Including the S3 expansion, Kansanshi is expected to produce up to 250,000 tonnes of copper annually.
By George Musonda
Kalemba August 19, 2025
