Construction of a dual carriageway Road in Solwezi by Kansanshi mine reaches 45%

The construction and upgrade of the Mushitala–Mitech-Boom […]

The construction and upgrade of the Mushitala–Mitech-Boom Gate Road to a dual carriageway in Solwezi District, North Western Province, spearheaded by First Quantum Minerals (FQM) through its subsidiary Kansanshi Mining PLC in partnership with the local authority, has achieved significant progress, reaching approximately 45% completion just three months after work began in May 2026.

 The project is being funded on a 50:50 basis, with K52 million in construction costs provided by Kansanshi Mining PLC and K52 million by the government, for a total investment of K104 million. This K52 million investment by FQM underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to complementing the Zambian government’s efforts to enhance road infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in the North-Western Province.

 In an interview with the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Leonard Kabwiku, Operations Superintendent for Site Services at Kansanshi Mining PLC, provided an update on the ongoing road construction project.

“To date, we’ve completed approximately 2.5 kilometers of subgrade. For the sub-base, we’ve covered 1.7 kilometers, and we’ve surfaced 1.5 kilometers, among others, which is now open for public use on the righthand side of the road.”Currently, our focus has shifted to the left-hand side, where we’ve also begun laying the sub-base this, starting from Boomgate to Poma BHL. Our plan is to stabilize the sub-base, lay the stone base, and complete surfacing up to BHL. Simultaneously, we’ll continue with subgrade works beyond Mana Bakery, moving towards the hospital.”

 “In terms of progress, we’re approaching 45 percent completion and within days, we expect to be even closer to that milestone.”

Commenting on the impact of the new road, Kabwiku highlighted that the advantages are far-reaching as the improved infrastructure will speed up the movement of people and goods, boost accessibility, for businesses along the route, and make doing business in the area much easier.

Additionally, he noted that property values are set to increase, while motorists will benefit from extended vehicle lifespans and decreased maintenance costs.

He further added that the projected completion date for the project is the first quarter of 2027. Kabwiku further reiterated Kansanshi’s full commitment to delivering a high-quality, world-class road for the people of Solwezi.

“We do not compromise on quality, using materials and expertise that meet international standards. Our promise is to deliver infrastructure that will stand the test of time and bring lasting value to the community.” The project will transform the 4.82-kilometre stretch from the Mitech traffic lights to the Kansanshi mine gate into a high-quality, stone-based dual carriageway, featuring two lanes of traffic in each direction.

 Article by Tyndale Muchiya