Mumbwa, Zambia – June 19, 2025 – The Zambian Government commended Sinomine Kitumba Minerals Company Limited (Sinomine Kitumba) as a benchmark for responsible investment during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the rehabilitation of the Mumbwa-Kasempa Road (D181).

Hon. Credo Nanjuwa, Minister for Southern Province and Member of Parliament for Mumbwa Constituency, officiated the ceremony. He praised Sinomine Kitumba’s commitment, stating: “By investing in critical infrastructure that benefits the entire community, Sinomine Kitumba has set a high standard for how businesses can – and must – play a pivotal role in national development. This project exemplifies the power of shared values and long-term partnership between the government and responsible investors.” Minister Nanjuwa emphasized the road’s vital role in connecting Mumbwa to broader economic opportunities, improving goods transport, and enhancing public safety.

The D181 Highway serves as a vital lifeline for the residents of Mumbwa District, facilitating daily travel, agricultural product transportation, and resource flow. With the rapid development of the socio-economy, the existing road conditions can no longer adequately meet these demands.

Mr. Bai Yunzheng, Construction Manager of Sinomine Kitumba Minerals, elaborated on the project’s significance and specific plans during the ceremony: “Infrastructure is the cornerstone of economic development, and roads are crucial links connecting communities, promoting trade, and improving livelihoods. This rehabilitation project will involve widening the existing road to 14 meters and simultaneously upgrading the roadside and road shoulder drainage systems, significantly enhancing the road’s traffic capacity and safety.” After completion, the road’s traffic capacity will increase by 40% and transportation time will be reduced by 30%.

The project has a planned construction period of six months and is expected to be completed by the end of December 2025. Once operational, the upgraded highway will greatly improve transportation conditions in Mumbwa and surrounding areas, reduce logistics costs, and inject new vitality into local agriculture, commerce, and social development.

Mr. Bai reaffirmed the company’s steadfast commitment to “In Zambia, for Zambians”: “We are not only committed to the sustainable development of mineral resources but are also dedicated to creating long-term value for the local communities. The upgrading of the D181 Highway is a key initiative in fulfilling our corporate social responsibility and giving back to the community. We firmly believe this renewed road will become a true ‘Path of Development,’ delivering tangible convenience and opportunities to the residents of Mumbwa.”

As an important subsidiary of Sinomine Resource Group in Zambia, Sinomine Kitumba has always been committed to the development philosophy of “For Zambia, by Zambia”. This path, which embodies the friendship and wisdom between China and Zambia, will undoubtedly become a powerful engine to promote the economic and social development of the Mumbwa region, and write a new chapter of win-win cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. Sinomine Kitumba will continue to adhere to the principle of “Consultation, Construction, and Sharing”, and work hand in hand with the people of Zambia to jointly draw up a more beautiful blueprint for development.

The company expressed deep gratitude to the Zambian government at all levels and the local community for their invaluable support, trust, and cooperation. Mr. Bai pledged that the project would strictly adhere to the highest standards of environmental protection and safety production to ensure high-quality completion. Simultaneously, the company will prioritize the hiring of local labor to create more job opportunities for the community.

This road rehabilitation project is regarded as a symbol of deepened friendship between Sinomine Kitumba Minerals and the Mumbwa region, and their joint stride toward a brighter future. Mr. Bai envisioned: “Let us look forward together as a wider, smoother thoroughfare will soon stretch across this land – bearing the weight of our hopes and dreams, guiding us toward shared prosperity and progress!”

Government officials including Central Province Permanent Secretary Godfrey Chitambala, Mumbwa District Commissioner Namukulo Hayumbu alongside representatives from relevant government departments, community leaders, partners, and numerous members of the public witnessed the significant occasion.