04/05/2026
๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ญ International Mine Rescue Competition 2026.
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) delivered a strong performance during the competitive phase of the International Mine Rescue Competition 2026, held at Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi and Mopani Mine in Mufulira.
Over the course of the past week, the KCM rescue team demonstrated discipline, precision, and resilience in a series of high-pressure simulations, including live firefighting exercises, rope rescue challenges, and underground mine rescue operations.
The competition phase also provided a valuable platform for learning, collaboration, and global knowledge exchange, as teams shared best practices in mine safety and emergency response.
KCM Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Malcolm Mewett was represented by KCM Heath Safety and Environment Manager,Ms Elizabeth Sakeni.
โThis platform is not just about competition, but about learning, sharing experiences, and strengthening our safety culture. It is encouraging to see our team perform while also gaining insights from global best practices,โ Ms. Sakeni said.
She also highlighted the presence of a womenโs rescue team participating as observers, marking a positive step toward greater inclusion in mine rescue.
And KCM Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Stakeholder Engagements, Dr. John K***a, was also present and emphasized the broader value of the competition.
โPlatforms like IMRC are critical for building capacity, strengthening collaboration, and improving emergency response standards across the mining industry,โ Dr. K***a said.
Meanwhile, the President of the Mine Rescue Association of Zambia, Mr. Grabriel Zulu has commended the organisers for successfully hosting the global event.
โThis has been a great opportunity for our teams to test their skills, learn from international standards, and grow,โ Mr. Zulu said.
KCMโs participation reflects its continued commitment to safety excellence, continuous learning, and preparedness, ensuring teams remain ready to respond effectively to mining emergencies.
As the event transitions into its final conference and closing ceremony, KCM celebrates not only the performance of its team, but also the spirit of collaboration and progress shared across the global mining community.
The International Mine Rescue Competition 2026, taking place from April 26 to May 5, 2026, marks a historic milestone as it is being hosted in Africa for the first time.
Organised by the Zambia Chamber of Mines, the competition has brought together 22 elite mine rescue teams from across the world.
The event was held in Mufulira at the Mopani Central Training Centre (MCTC) and the Mufulira West Portal, as well as at Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi, providing a platform for teams to compete, learn, and exchange best practices in mine rescue and emergency response.