CNMC backs digital upgrading of mining industry in Zambia

Production Commencement Ceremony of the South East Ore Body (SEOB), Nonferrous China Africa (NFCA) is held in Zambia's Chambishi town. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

The first digital mining construction program in Africa was recently put into operation by major central state-owned enterprise China Nonferrous Metal Mining (Group) Co Ltd (CNMC), and is expected to bring new technologies and job opportunities for local people.

The project, located at Zambia's Chambishi copper mine area, has investment of up to $830 million. Annual ore production is expected to reach 3.3 million metric tons. The amount of copper concentrate will reach 60,000 tons.

The company uses intelligent and digital equipment to realize real-time monitoring and quick response for production scheduling. The method should improve efficiency to 10 tons per person per day. It will also help guarantee safety of the working site and promote technical upgrading of the local mining industry.

As one of the first Chinese companies to go global, CNMC has business in over 80 countries and regions, of which Zambia is the most important overseas destination for investment, the company said.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu attends the commencement ceremony at Chambishi in Zambia's mining area. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

CNMC is the largest Chinese enterprise in Zambia and has established 14 local branches with investment up to $3 billion.

The Zambia-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, operated by CNMC, has attracted more than 50 companies, providing about 8,000 job opportunities. Total revenue of the zone surpasses $14 billion.