KCM Launches $8.1M Township Road Rehabilitation Project
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has embarked on a US$8.1 million township road rehabilitation initiative spanning 15.1 kilometres across Chililabombwe, Chingola, and Shibuyunji districts, under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at improving infrastructure and stimulating economic development.
The project will see 3.9 km rehabilitated in Chililabombwe, 4.4 km in Chingola, and 7.1 km in Shibuyunji. Key roads earmarked for upgrade include Kamenza Way and Konkola Road in Chililabombwe; 3rd, 4th and 5th Streets, and George Ngoma Road in Chingola; as well as Off Farmers Road in Nampundwe.
Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Charles Milupi, who officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony in Chililabombwe on Saturday, commended KCM, its parent company Vedanta Resources, the Government of Zambia, and other partners for their commitment to enhancing community livelihoods.
He highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in driving infrastructure growth. “This partnership with Konkola Copper Mines is one such example of private collaboration in improving public infrastructure through road networks,” Mr Milupi said. “I urge other private sector players to emulate KCM’s gesture and invest in community road rehabilitation in their areas of operation.”
Chililabombwe Member of Parliament and Minister of Mines, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, said the initiative demonstrated Vedanta and KCM’s resolve to honour commitments in the shareholders’ agreement, including increased funding for community projects and ramping up production.
KCM Chief Operating Officer, Malcolm Mewett, described the project as the company’s largest single community investment to date. “This is part of our broader commitment to invest $20 million annually into communities for the direct benefit of the local population,” he said. “Good roads are essential for economic growth and community connection.”
KCM Community Development Trust Board Chairperson, Ms Chearyp Sokoni, hailed the rehabilitation scheme as a flagship project that would pave the way for further initiatives, including the construction of education facilities and the upgrading of the Trades Training Centre in Kitwe.
The roadworks are expected to significantly improve accessibility, bolster local commerce, and strengthen links between communities in the three districts.
