Lusaka, Zambia - (September 28, 2001) U.S. Ambassador to Zambia David B. Dunn signed a grant agreement in the amount of $248,540 on behalf of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) with Mopani Copper Mines to fund a feasibility study to examine a deep level copper mining development program designed to extend operations and life at Mopani's Mufilira Mine. A competitively selected U.S. consultant will conduct the study.

Further development of the mining sector is a high national priority for Zambia to create employment and promote economic growth in Zambia. Mopani Copper Mines is currently evaluating options for extending the life of its existing mines by extracting below the 1,340-meter level. Mopani sought TDA's assistance in funding a qualified consultant to assist them in this effort. The TDA-funded study would examine the technical, financial and environmental factors influencing the project's development.

This grant represents TDA's continuing effort to target important infrastructure and industrial projects that support private sector development in Zambia. Earlier this year, TDA provided a $287,970 grant to the Zambian Ministry of Energy to evaluate the development of new electric power infrastructure to support the Kansanshi Mine.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency promotes American private sector participation by helping U.S. companies pursue business opportunities in developing and middle income countries. Through the funding of feasibility studies, orientation visits, specialized training grants, business workshops, and various forms of technical assistance, we help American businesses compete for infrastructure projects in emerging markets. In addition, the agency promotes capacity building initiatives and supports U.S. government trade, economic policy and development objectives around the world.

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