First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi mine has reported copper production exceeding 135,000 tonnes for the first nine months of 2026, reinforcing Zambia’s ongoing drive to significantly boost its mining output.
The production figure, covering January through September, positions Kansanshi as a key contributor to the nation’s ambitious target of surpassing one million tonnes of copper for the year, a critical step toward achieving three million metric tonnes annually by 2031.
According to official production data seen by the Zambian Business Times, Kansanshi delivered salary increment of 30%, 15% in 2025 and another 15% in 2026. This has brought tangible benefits and stability to our members.” Kansanshi has since adjusted its 2026 production guidance to a range of 175,000–185,000 tonnes, narrowing from the earlier forecast of 175,000–205,000 tonnes. over 45,800 tonnes of copper in the third quarter of 2026, marking an increase of 1,846 tonnes from the previous quarter.
This growth is partly attributed to enhanced throughput following the launch of the S3 project in 2025. The S3 circuit has consistently operated above its design capacity, supported by improved equipment utilization, longer operational hours, and higher milling rates.
However, the majority of the feed continues to come from surface stockpiles, which are typically tarnished and lower in grade compared to freshly mined ore according to the report. In the second quarter of 2026, Kansanshi produced 43,997 tonnes of copper, a decrease of 1,348 tonnes from the first quarter.
The drop was primarily due to lower throughput resulting from planned maintenance on the S3 and mixed circuits, although this was partially offset by higher ore grades. Earlier in the year, first-quarter production reached 45,345 tonnes, down by 2,310 tonnes compared to the previous quarter, mainly due to lower feed grades and recoveries.
This, however, was partially compensated by increased throughput from the S3 circuit. Given year-to-date performance, National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW) President, Saul Simujika, has welcomed this development.
When asked earlier by ZBT, about the impact of increased mining activities on workers, Simujika highlighted ongoing improvements in conditions of service. “At Kansanshi, salary increases are negotiated annually.
In 2024, we secured a two-year agreement that provided a total He also praised the workforce at Kansanshi Mine for their dedication and consistency. “We’ve seen a strong sense of ownership and commitment among the employees.
Their hard work has been vital to the mine’s recent successes.” Simujika further noted that the increase in production comes at an opportune time, as global copper prices remain high. “We are delighted to be moving in this direction, and we are optimistic that production numbers will continue to improve.”
He said the continued growth in copper production at Kansanshi underscores the mine’s critical role in supporting Zambia’s mining sector and national economic objectives.
Simujika concluded by expressing optimism about continued growth in both production and worker welfare at Kansanshi Mine, citing collaboration between management and employees as key to ongoing progress.
Article by Justine Phiri
