Chingola, Zambia, 11 August 2026 – Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM) has announced that it is working with global technical partners Axiom Group and VBKOM to advance mineral-resource development, exploration and long-term mine optimization across its operations on the Copperbelt.

The partnership brings together KCM’s operational knowledge with Axiom and VBKOM’s technical   expertise in geology, geophysics, resource modelling, hydrogeology and geotechnical engineering. 

During the initial phase of the programme, the integrated technical team validated KCM’s historical  drill-hole  data,  updated  and  refined  mineral-resource  and  reserve  models,  and established a strong technical foundation for an iterative drill-hole optimization programme.

Following the successful completion of this work, the scope of the partnership has expanded to include a high-resolution active 3D seismic survey, magnetic surveys, artificial intelligence-driven drill-target optimization, and predictive hydrogeological and geotechnical modelling.

These advanced technologies will enhance KCM’s understanding of its mineral resources, improve  the  identification and prioritization of future drilling targets, and support safer and more efficient mine planning.

KCM Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Mewett said the partnership forms part of the Company’s broader strategy to apply modern technology and world-class technical expertise to unlock the full potential of its mineral assets.

“KCM has significant high-grade copper resources and the potential for a mine life extending approximately another 50  years. By combining our operational experience with advanced technology, reliable data and specialist technical expertise, we are creating a stronger foundation for sustainable growth and increased copper production,” Mr Mewett said.

He added that KCM remains committed to ensuring that the programme creates opportunities for Zambian professionals and surrounding communities.

“Local capacity development is an important part of this partnership. We want Zambian professionals and local workers to participate meaningfully in the project, acquire new skills and benefit from long-term employment opportunities. Our objective is not only to develop the resource but also to develop the people who will sustain these operations into the future,” he said.

Senior executives from Axiom Group, including its Chief Executive Officer and Vice President of Corporate Development, recently visited KCM’s operations and commended the scale of the assets, the commitment of employees and the Company’s focus on safety, collaboration and innovation.

An Axiom Group representative said the combined team was successfully integrating people, technology, data and technical expertise to support the continued development of KCM’s operations.

“We are proud to serve as a global technical partner to Vedanta–KCM. The professionalism, engagement and commitment demonstrated by the KCM team are impressive. We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development and optimization of this world-class copper asset.”

The partnership supports KCM’s long-term strategy to grow production, improve operational efficiency and contribute to Zambia’s ambition of increasing national copper output.

With global demand for copper expected to continue growing, the development of KCM’s high-grade resources will strengthen Zambia’s position as a major copper producer while supporting employment, skills development and economic activity on the Copperbelt.

-ENDS-

About KCM

Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) Plcis one of the largest copper producers in Zambia owned by Vedanta Resources (79.4%) and ZCCM-IH (20.6%). It operates mining and processing plants located in four districts namely Chingola, Chililabombwe, Kitwe and Nampundwe. With an investment pledge of over  $1 billion by Vedanta, KCM envisages to unlock key operations such as the Konkola Deep Mining Project (KDMP) in Chililabombwe and increase production to 300,000 tonnes of copper per year by 2030.

About Axiom Group

Axiom Group combines geoscience technology and authoritative expertise to offer  tailored, sustainable solutions for efficient, responsible mineral exploration and development projects.

About VBKOM

VBKOM is a South African Mining Consultancy that was founded in 2008 with a dream to make success a reality for mining businesses across the African continent. This would be achieved by establishing a highly skilled consultancy firm, positioned to deliver expert technical mining   consulting services to pan-African and international clients. With its headquarters located  in Gauteng, South Africa VBKOM has additional offices in Kathu, Northern Cape Province, South Africa and Toronto, Canada.

Issued by:

Corporate Affairs Department

Konkola Copper Mines