• The second phase is to get an equity partner so as to move on in terms of the issues pertaining to production.
• The search has started and it is bearing fruit.
• Over 7 companies have expressed interest to partner with ZCCM-IH and exploit the resource.
Government says the search for equity partners for Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) has commenced and it is yielding positive results.
Speaking at a media briefing, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Richard Musukwa revealed that 7 foreign companies have so far expressed interest to partner with ZCCM-IH in running the mine.
Mr. Musukwa said government wants to ensure that ZCCM-IH has a controlling share in the mine, while allowing other investors to have a significant shareholding.
He added that the nation will be informed once the search for partners who have expressed interest in the Mine is concluded.
“When we did the phase one, the second phase is to get an equity partner so that we now move on in terms of the issues pertaining to production or sustainability of the workforce. The search has started and I can assure you that it is bearing fruit. We have over 7 companies that have expressed interest to partner with ZCCM-IH and exploit this resource.”
“I want to re-emphasize that government’s position is to ensure that ZCCM-IH has a controlling share, while allowing other entities or other investors to also take a significant shareholding to partner with ZCCM-IH. So we have made some good progress and my Permanent Secretary will be arranging a News Conference again to inform the nation once we conclude on these partners who have expressed interest,” Mr. Musukwa said.
Meanwhile, Mr. Musukwa echoed government’s call for Zambians to take advantage of the opportunity presented at Mopani and invest in the Mine.
“And we are encouraging local business, Zambian enterprises to take advantage and be part of this opportunity at Mopani.”
