First Quantum Introduces Automated Drilling Technology at Sentinel Mine
First Quantum Minerals has introduced advanced automated drilling technology at its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila, becoming the first mining operation in Zambia to deploy the system.
The company said the innovation is expected to improve safety, precision and efficiency while supporting Zambia’s ambition to increase copper production to three million tonnes per year.
The technology was successfully tested using three automated drill machines operated by First Quantum’s subsidiary, Trident Mining, in partnership with equipment supplier Flanders Inc.
Following the successful trials, Flanders Inc., an industry leader in drill automation, has committed to establishing a local office in Zambia to support the rollout of the technology and strengthen local skills development.
First Quantum emphasised that the introduction of automation will not result in job losses. Instead, workers are being retrained for higher-skilled positions, including operating the drills from a central control room and serving as field operators responsible for monitoring the automated equipment.
According to the company, the new system has already delivered notable performance gains. Drill-hole accuracy in the X, Y and Z axes has improved significantly through the use of advanced laser sensors and GPS technology, leading to better blasting quality and rock fragmentation.
The number of drill holes completed has increased by more than one-third, while safety has been enhanced as operators can now control the machinery remotely from secure locations.
Automated drilling technology is already widely used in mining operations in countries including South Africa, Botswana, Australia, the United States and parts of South America. With trials now completed, First Quantum has received regulatory approval to roll out the technology more broadly in Zambia.
Zambia Country Director Anthony Mukutuma said the investment reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and modern mining practices.
“Innovation is central to how we operate at First Quantum,” Mukutuma said. “We are proud to introduce this state-of-the-art drilling system and to demonstrate that Zambia is at the forefront of modern copper production. This investment improves productivity while keeping workers safe and protecting jobs.”
The development aligns with remarks made by Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr Kabeta Hapenga at the Zambia Chamber of Mines’ 9th Occupational Health, Safety and Environment Conference in October, where he highlighted the importance of technology in reducing workplace injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.
First Quantum Minerals is a global mining company with operations in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru. In Zambia, it operates the Kansanshi mine and smelter in Solwezi, as well as the Sentinel copper mine and the Enterprise nickel mine in Kalumbila.
