Mopani Copper Mines has told the Lusaka High Court that it is the rightful owner of the infamous Mufulira Black Mountain, also known as the Mopani Copper Slag Dump, disputing claims made by Digi Wave Branding Limited.
The mining company argued that Digi Wave Branding Limited and others have based their claims on “misconceived facts” and failed to disclose crucial information, including Mopani’s legal ownership and surface rights over Slag Dump 1.
According to an affidavit filed on March 24, 2025, by Makosa Zulu, a senior legal officer at Mopani, the plaintiffs obtained an ex parte order that prevents Mopani from interfering with their small-scale exploration activities.
However, Mopani contended that the dispute should be resolved through the Mines and Minerals Development Act, which outlines a dispute resolution process involving the Mining Appeals Tribunal before any court intervention.
Mopani stated that it had held a large-scale mining license over the area for more than 25 years, valid until 2050.
The company acquired the site from ZCCM Investment Holdings Limited in 2000 through an asset sale agreement.
The Ministry of Mines revoked licenses granted to Jubilee Solutions Limited and later to the plaintiffs, confirming Mopani’s continuous mining rights.
The company also argued that the injunction has caused significant disruption to its operations, as Slag Dump 1 is an active mining site essential for mineral processing.
Mopani warned that even a brief restriction could lead to substantial financial losses, affecting not just the mine but also Zambia’s economy.
On the other hand, Digi Wave Branding Limited is seeking a declaration that it holds valid exploration and artisanal mining licenses for Slag Dump 1.
The company wants the court to recognize its rights to conduct mining activities, as well as compensation for damages allegedly caused by Mopani’s refusal to grant access.
Mopani, however, insisted that the plaintiffs were never in possession of the site and that their licenses were erroneously issued and later revoked by the Ministry of Mines.
The mining giant is asking the court to dismiss the injunction and uphold its exclusive rights to the slag dump.
