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On December 16, 2025 (local time), a senior government delegation from Zambia, led by Siazongo Siakalenge, Deputy Secretary of the Cabinet Office to the President, visited Sinomine Kitumba Minerals Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Sinomine Kitumba”) for an on-site inspection.
The delegation also included Alfred Sakwiya, Permanent Secretary of the Management Development Division; Naomi Tetemashimba, Permanent Secretary of the Special Functions Division; and Andrew Chipwende, Director of the Public–Private Dialogue Forum, among other senior officials.
The visit marked an important government review of progress on nationally significant investment projects. Accompanied by Wang Zhiwei, Chairman and General Manager of Sinomine Kitumba, the delegation conducted a comprehensive tour of key project sites, including the open-pit mine, the processing plant under construction, the concrete batching plant, and the Phase I 50-MW solar power station, which serves as a core component of the project’s green energy system.
During the inspection, Wang Zhiwei provided a detailed briefing on the project’s construction plan and current progress. He noted that the project team is advancing work at full pace, with the processing plant expected to be completed and commissioned in the second half of next year. Construction of the smelter has also been fully planned and is scheduled for completion by the end of next year, enabling the establishment of a fully integrated “mining–processing–smelting” value chain within the mining area.
Wang emphasized:“Our goal is not only to develop mineral resources, but to place green and sustainable development at the core of Sinomine Kitumba’s long-term vision. The Phase I 50-MW solar power station is about to be connected to the grid, and preparations are already underway for the construction of a Phase II 50-MW solar project. This will enhance energy security for the mine and represents our firm commitment to Zambia’s green future.”
Mr. Siakalenge expressed sincere appreciation for what he described as “Sinomine Resource speed” and the project’s strong execution capabilities. He noted that the company’s investment is turning President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitments to job creation and investment attraction into reality.
“The President promised jobs for the people of Zambia, and today we see nearly 3,000 jobs created here. He promised to attract investment, and today we see a solid USD 600 million investment taking shape,” Mr. Siakalenge said.“We are especially pleased to learn that the Phase I 50-MW solar power station will be connected to the national grid as early as next month. This will provide Zambia with valuable clean energy and clearly demonstrates the company’s vision and strong commitment to sustainable development. What once seemed like an ambitious story has now become a reality before our eyes. The government will continue to give you its full support.”
In an interview with ZNBC, Wang Zhiwei outlined the strategic importance of the Kitumba project to Zambia’s national goal of achieving annual copper production of 3 million tonnes. He also highlighted the company’s broader efforts to promote local economic development and fulfill its social responsibilities.
In addition to creating substantial employment opportunities, Sinomine Kitumba has invested in the construction of the 52-kilometer D181 road connecting Mumbwa Town to the mining area, significantly improving local transportation conditions. The company has also funded the development of a community trading market, helping to create a more vibrant business environment for residents near the mine. These initiatives were highly praised by delegation members and local communities alike.
The high-level inspection not only served as a comprehensive review of the Kitumba project’s construction achievements, but also reflected the Zambian government’s strong recognition of Sinomine Resource’s efficiency and execution capacity. The visit has further strengthened mutual trust and laid a solid foundation for deeper cooperation between the two sides in the future.
