THE MINING FUTURE PROMISING, SAYS SIMUKONDA

By Noel Iyombwa

Mineral expert Edward Simukonda says the 15 percent increase in copper production output in the first quarter of 2024 is a good sign for the country’s economy.

In an exclusive interview with The Scoop newspaper, Simukonda noted that while the positive impact will not be immediate, it will benefit the economy in the long run.

He stated that by the end of the year, the increase should reach between 40 to 50 percent.

“The 15 percent increase is a good sign that we are heading in the right direction. We hope this will rise to 40 to 50 percent by the end of the year. Once it does, it will improve the economy, although the effects may take up to six months to become evident,” he said.

A comprehensive report on copper production reveals that 165,984 metric tons were produced during this period, up from 144,452 metric tons in the first quarter of 2023.

Simukonda also mentioned that handing over Mopani to another investor is beneficial for the people of Copperbelt, noting that many improvements are needed at the mine.