KCM Launches Leather Factory to Empower Women and Youths on the Copperbelt
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has launched a Leather Products Manufacturing Factory Project across Chingola, Kitwe, and Chililabombwe, aiming to create 150 direct jobs for women and youths.
With a US$120,000 investment over three years, the initiative will support training, machinery, raw materials, and operations.
At the official handover in Chingola, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo praised KCM’s role in equipping young people and women with entrepreneurial skills.
“The ripple effect goes beyond 150 people—this project will uplift entire communities,” he said.
COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe lauded the Chingola cluster as a model for inclusive industrialization, saying it will boost local value addition and enable SMEs to produce export-quality goods.
The facility is expected to manufacture gloves, shoes, and aprons for mining and general markets.
KCM Senior Legal Counsel Glory Chipoya, representing COO Malcolm Mewett, emphasized the project’s apprenticeship model, which will allow participants to earn while gaining hands-on experience and business acumen.
The initiative is supported by the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI) under COMESA, providing technical assistance to ensure its sustainability.
