Lumwana makes headway with non-mining related plans

Lumwana makes headway with non-mining related plans
By David Chongo in Solwezi
Mon 16 May 2011, 11:10 CAT

LUMWANA Mine in Solwezi is on course with its plans to develop sustainable non-mining related business, says managing director Adam Wright.

Responding to a query on Lumwana’s business development since being granted multi-facility economic zone (MFEZ) status last year, Wright said both local and foreign companies had expressed interest to invest in manufacturing and processing in the area.

“We have had several expressions of interest in MFEZ opportunities, mostly related to agri-business. One group is intending to establish a 3-star hotel and vocational training centre for hospitality trades. Overall, we are making good progress with our plans to develop sustainable non-mine related business at Lumwana,” Wright said.

Lumwana Mine had pledged, during launch of LMFEZ by commerce minister Felix Mutati, that beside creating 13,000 jobs, it would mobilise its partners for venture capital into the area with Japanese company, Hitachi, leading the in-flow with $10 million investment in heavy equipment spare part manufacture for the mine.

Meanwhile, Zambia Development Agency in North Western has targeted Kasempa and Kabompo for a capacity building exercise to develop the honey processing industry.

Regional Enterprise Development Officer, James Malala said there was significant honey production in the two districts by small and medium enterprises which ZDA would help enhance through granting tax exemption incentives.