MMG Limited (MMG) recently marked the groundbreaking of the Khoemacau Copper Mine expansion in Botswana. The expansion will increase capacity to 130,000 tonnes of copper in copper concentrate per annum with associated silver output exceeding four million ounces, by constructing a new 4.5Mtpa process plant, extending mining operations to Zone 5 North, Mango and Zeta North-East deposits.
The expansion project will raise the mine’s total milling capacity to over 8.0 Mtpa, with capital expenditure estimated at approximately US$900 million (including pre-2026 spending). First copper concentrate from the expansion project is expected in the first half of 2028.
“It’s a proud day for our MMG Khoemacau team and partners in Botswana,” said Ivo Zhao, MMG’s CEO. “This expansion positions Khoemacau as a long‑life, high‑volume operation supplying copper the world needs for electrification and renewable energy – and it does so with a clear commitment to safety, environmental stewardship and local opportunity.”
Approved in December 2025, following the completion of its feasibility study, the 130ktpa Expansion Project is expected to deliver significant economic and social benefits. Over the next two years and beyond, Khoemacau will provide substantial long-term local employment. But MMG also recognises that a mine’s impact extends well beyond direct jobs, and will launch a new national reskilling program in collaboration with the Government of Botswana. This initiative will tackle current labour shortages and develop the next generation of skilled mining professionals – building a robust talent pipeline through accelerated training, certification and hands-on experience.
Looking ahead, a further expansion potential of up to 200,000 tonnes of copper in copper concentrate per annum has been identified, supported by ongoing exploration activities. A pre-feasibility study for the next expansion phase is scheduled to begin this year.
“Our partnership with Botswana is central to this project and our success,” Mr Zhao said. “As we grow, we’ll continue to invest in training, local community projects and supplier development, ensuring the economic benefits of this project multiply across communities and the broader Botswana economy.”
The Khoemacau Mine is a large, long-life copper mine located in northwest Botswana, in the emerging Kalahari Copperbelt. The tenement package hosts the tenth largest African copper mineral resource by total contained copper metal and is one of the largest copper sedimentary systems in the world outside of the Central African Copperbelt.
MMG is targeting a position among the world’s top 10 copper producers, with the Khoemacau expansion representing a cornerstone of this growth strategy. The company operates copper, zinc and precious metals assets across Australia, Africa and Latin America, underpinned by a commitment to responsible mining practices as a member of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM).
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Felicity Watson
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