Barrick Lumwana Mine  says  it is expected  to double  its  copper  production from the  current  120,000 metric  tonnes to 240,000 per  annum by 2028 with the expansion of the  Super Mine Pit.

Speaking when a delegation of three Cabinet Ministers led by Minister of Mines Paul Kabuswe visited the mine today, Barrick Lumwana Country  Manager Anthony Malenga attributed  the anticipated  increased copper production  to the stable policy  environment  put in place  by government. 

And Mr Malenga  said  the company  has prioritized  the employment of local  people with  99 percent local workers out of which 40 percent are community members from Kalumbila  district. 

He added that with the coming of the Expansion of the Super Pit Mine, the mining company is expected to increase the number of employees to 8,500 by 2028 from the current 2,500 and that 550 more permanent jobs will be added. 

And Barrick Lumwana Mine Operations Manager Nicholas Coomson said the mine is also working on embracing modern technology from its manual systems.

Meanwhile, Minister of Mines and Mineral Development Paul Kabuswe said the delegation is in Northwestern Province on a fact-finding mission regarding mine operations as sanctioned by President Hakainde Hichilema. 

Mr Kabuswe has reaffirmed that with anticipated increased copper production it will be possible for the nation to achieve its three million metric tonnes strategic target by 2030.

He further said that with the expected copper production, government wants to see  benefits  trickle  down  through  increased  tax revenue collection  and job  opportunities for  citizens.

He has called on the mining companies operating in Northwestern Province to be proactive in safeguarding the environment to ensure water bodies are not polluted.

Mr Kabuswe has also called on Barrick Lumwana Copper Mine to work in collaboration with  local  leadership  and create  a platform  that will support  smooth flow of information for the community  to be well  informed  on  the contributions of  the mine.

Mr Kabuswe proposed that Mines should come up with a list of requirements  for contractors that  should compel  them to treat  their  workers right  and pay them the right  amount  of salaries.

Among the Ministers who visited the mine  in Northwestern include,   Information and Media Cornelius  Mweetwa, Labour  and social security Brenda Tambatamba and Ministry of  Mines Permanent Secretary  Hapenga.