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KCM Chairman sees opportunities from mining for Zambia

MessagePosté: Jeu 19 Fév 2015 14:05
de LesCrozes
KCM Chairman sees opportunities from mining for Zambia
19-02-2015

Mr Tom Albanese chairman of Konkola Copper Mines has called for redoubling of efforts to expand on opportunities from the Zambian mining value chain.

Mr Albanese said that he was encouraged by the Zambian government’s focus on the potential of the mining industry value chain.

He urged industry players to help create employment through small and medium sized enterprises. KCM has recently appointed a Vice President for Local Economic Development to drive the process.

Mr Albanese said that “Arriving at the right solution requires broad stakeholder agreement, a predictable operating environment and a commitment to strong and stable governance.”

Mr Albanese also told the delegates that KCM is facing several challenges. Falling ore grades and high strip ratios at KCM have increased production costs. In addition, the new Mineral Royalty Tax would add USD 80 million to KCM costs.

Power prices have trebled at KCM in the last 10 years, while the issues around value added tax refunds have effectively added 10% to costs. Finally, the rapid decline in copper prices since the start of the year has compounded the challenges.