Mining

Coal Mining Operations

MEL adopts open pit mining method using scientific practices and modern Heavy Earth Moving Equipment, to produce high grade and thermal grade coal to suit the customer requirements. This method of mining ensures fast and precise extraction of this precious energy resource.

The Company operates a modern, Coal Handling and Processing Plant (CHPP) which facilitates production of different coal products with consistent quality.

Since privatization in 2010, MEL has achieved significant improvement in the management of coal dumps, mitigating air pollution caused by spontaneous combustion in the over burden dumps.

In recognition of these improvements towards sound environmental management practices, MEL bagged the prestigious “Environmental Award 2012”, from Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).

Sustained regulatory compliance with a clean record, demonstrated commitment to continuous environmental improvement and utilization of Best available Environmental Technology (BET) and Best Environmental Practices (BEP) of MEL were duly recognized by ZEMA by according the Company “Environmental Award for Overall Contribution to Sound Management Practices in Industry 2016″.

Other Mining Operations

The company has recently commenced drilling operations for magnetite in its mining lease area in Namantombwa, Central Province.

In mid-2024, MEL was granted two licenses for lithium exploration in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development around Mapatizya, Southern Province and is undertaking development activities.