By Cecili Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has introduced new automated drilling technology at its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila, North-Western Province, marking the first time the advanced system has been deployed in Zambia.
The innovation is expected to support Zambia’s national ambition of producing 3 million tonnes of copper per year, while also enhancing safety and up-skilling the mining workforce.
Three automated drill machines have been successfully tested at Sentinel Mine by First Quantum’s subsidiary, Trident Mining, in partnership with equipment supplier Flanders Inc.
FQM Zambia Country Director, Anthony Mukutuma, said the investment will boost productivity while ensuring worker safety and job protection.
“Innovation is central to how we operate at First Quantum. We are proud to introduce this state-of-the-art drilling system and to show once again that Zambia is at the forefront of modern copper production.”
“Importantly, no jobs will be lost as a result of the automation. Instead, employees are being trained for higher-skilled roles, including operating the technology from a central control room and serving as roaming field operators who oversee the automated drills,” Mr. Mukutuma said.
He explained that the new technology has already delivered significant operational improvements.
“The X, Y and Z precision of drill holes have improved significantly thanks to advanced laser sensors and GPS technology. As a result, blasting quality and fragmentation have improved.”
“The number of holes drilled has increased by over one-third and safety has also improved as operators can now manage the equipment from a secure, remote location,” he stressed.
Mr. Mukutuma noted that similar automated drilling systems are already in use in mines across South Africa, Botswana, Australia, South America and the United States.
He added that following the successful trials, the company has now received the necessary regulatory approvals to fully roll out automated drilling technology in Zambia.
“The move reflects the message shared by Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Kabeta Hapenga at the Zambia Chamber of Mines’ 9th Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment Conference in October,” he said.
