The expansion of MMG Limited’s Khoemacau Copper Mine is set to significantly boost employment opportunities, strengthen local supply chains, and enhance long-term value for stakeholders.
This morning, the company officially commenced expansion works at its Zone 5 site. This milestone marks the development of three new mines—an investment that underscores MMG’s commitment to Botswana’s socioeconomic development and the advancement of the communities in which it operates.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Minerals & Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo. Also in attendance were MMG Limited Group Executives and China Minmetals Corporation (CMC) investors, led by Group CEO Ivo Zhao.
Last month, the Board of Directors of MMG Limited announced the approval of the feasibility study and the commitment to proceed with construction. The project is designed to increase annual production capacity to 130,000 tonnes of copper in concentrate, with associated silver output exceeding 4 million ounces.
The expansion involves extending mining operations to the Zone 5 North, Mango, and Zeta North-East deposits, as well as constructing a new 4.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) processing plant.
“This expansion will raise the mine’s total milling capacity to over 8.0 Mtpa. Total capital expenditure is estimated at approximately US$900 million,” the company revealed in a statement. The first copper concentrate from the project is expected in the first half of 2028.
According to MMG, the average life-of-mine C1 cost is expected to drop below US$1.60 per pound. This represents a significant reduction from the C1 cost of US$2.05 per pound recorded for the six months ending 30 June 2025.
“This expansion is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the profitability and scale of the Company’s copper portfolio,” the statement continued. Looking ahead, Khoemacau has identified further potential to reach 200,000 tonnes of copper per annum, supported by ongoing exploration. A pre-feasibility study for this next phase is scheduled to begin in 2026.
In June last year, Chinese mining services provider JCHX Mining Management was awarded a five-year, US$805 million contract for underground operations at Zone 5, taking over from Perenti’s Barminco.
MMG Limited, controlled by the state-run China Minmetals, acquired the Khoemacau Copper Mine in 2023 for US$1.88 billion. Headquartered in Australia, MMG is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and operates a global portfolio including the Dugald River and Rosebery mines in Australia, Kinsevere in the DRC, and Las Bambas in Peru.
