By Chiluba Chabi
Chingola Mayor Johnson Kango’mbe has reiterated that the acquisition of OB16 by Kumbele Mining Company followed all legal requirements, making it out of the government’s hands to alter the court’s decision.
This comes after small-scale miners, known as Jerabos, protested the cessation of illegal mining activities at the OB16 Open Pit mine in Kapisha.
Mr Kango’mbe condemned the riotous behavior and emphasized his stance against lawlessness in Chingola District.
He assured residents that law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain public order.
In a press briefing attended by Kumbele Mining Company representatives and the District Administration Officer, Stephen Monze, the mayor reassured the community that peace and stability will be maintained.
The new developments at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) are expected to have a positive impact on the district’s economic activities.
Kumbele Mining Company, which acquired OB16 in 2020, plans to invest US $150 million in reclaiming low-grade copper in Chingola’s Luano area, creating over 3,000 jobs. The company, backed by Chinese investors and two UK nationals, will use a hydrometallurgical process to extract copper.
