Barrick Gold Corporation, the operator of Lumwana Mine in Zambia’s North-Western Province, has announced ambitious plans to transform the neighboring Kalumbila District into a mining-powered economic hub that will endure well beyond the life of the mine.
Barrick President and CEO Mark Bristow revealed the company’s master plan, developed in partnership with local authorities, which aligns with Zambia’s integrated development strategy. Key initiatives include the construction of new employee housing in Manyama town, the establishment of an industrial supplier park, and the development of an airport, which is slated to be operational by the end of 2025.
“We are transforming the surrounding Kalumbila District into a mining-powered economic hub that will endure beyond Lumwana’s expanded life of mine,” Bristow stated.
Economic Contributions and Future Expansion
Since 2019, Barrick has injected over USD $3.7 billion into the Zambian economy. In 2024 alone, Lumwana contributed $887 million through royalties, taxes, salaries, and the procurement of goods and services. The company has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia’s ambition of increasing copper output to three million tons annually, with Lumwana’s expansion and further exploration in Northern Province playing pivotal roles.
Additionally, Lumwana has been addressing Zambia’s power challenges in collaboration with Zesco. Since September 2024, the mine’s co-generation initiatives have reduced its reliance on the national grid, helping alleviate the country’s supply-demand gap. Plans are also underway to upgrade the North-Western power corridor, which will benefit mines, local communities, and domestic consumers.
Promoting Local Development
Barrick emphasized its dedication to empowering local communities. In 2024, 72% of the $906 million spent on goods and services went to Zambian suppliers and contractors, bringing the total local expenditure to $2.5 billion since 2019. The company’s Business Accelerator Programme is targeting 150 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to support the mine’s upcoming superpit expansion.
The Lumwana expansion, expected to double its copper production to an annual average of 240,000 tons, will create 2,500 construction jobs through 2028, as well as an additional 550 permanent positions. To meet workforce demands, Lumwana is expanding its TEVETA-accredited training center, equipping local workers with critical technical skills. Currently, 99% of Lumwana’s employees are Zambian nationals, reflecting Barrick’s focus on sustainable workforce development.
Long-Term Vision
Barrick’s vision for Lumwana goes beyond mining, with investments designed to deliver lasting benefits to local communities and Zambia’s economy. The corporation remains committed to advancing local content, reducing reliance on external resources, and creating a self-sustaining economic hub in Kalumbila District.
As the company continues to align its operations with Zambia’s development goals, Barrick Gold’s efforts are expected to bolster the nation’s economic growth while ensuring that the benefits of mining endure for future generations.
