Modular building provider sees surging Zambia demand

The demand for modular infrastructure in Zambia’s mining sector is currently growing rapidly as the industry expands to meet global copper demand. With copper prices remaining high, nearly all mines in the region are undergoing significant expansion projects, says relocatable and modular buildings company Waco Modular business manager Karen Olivier.

Mining continues to be the cornerstone of Zambia’s economy, contributing over 20% of the country’s GDP and accounting for more than 70% of its export earnings, she explains, adding that as the sector scales up to meet surging global demand for copper, thereby fuelling national development, the imperative for fast, efficient and adaptable infrastructure in remote, high-intensity mining environments has never been more critical.

For openpit operations in particular, modular infrastructure is far more suitable than traditional brick-and-mortar structures, notes Olivier.

“Most of these sites are openpit operations, and their nature requires a flexible approach to infrastructure. A great example is the copper mine expansion near Solwezi, in Zambia’s North-Western province, by global copper company First Quantum Minerals (FQM), at its Kansanshi mine; as the current pit reaches depletion, they’re shifting mining activities to a new area,” she says.

This transition requires the removal of all existing buildings around the current site, high-lights Olivier. With brick-and-mortar buildings that would mean demolishing and hauling away debris, while with modular buildings, they can simply be relocated with ease.

Speed, Flexibility, Scalability

Relocatable modular infrastructure appeals to mines for reasons of agility and adaptability, says Olivier, adding that Waco Modular’s solutions provide flexibility and speed “unmatched” by traditional brick-and-mortar.

“What sets Waco Modular apart is our ability to deliver at speed. From the moment an order is placed, we can complete and deploy a fully functional building within days – a stark contrast to the months required for traditional brick-and-mortar construction, which involves extensive site preparation and on-site activity,” she explains.

“Our prefabrication method allows most work to be done off-site in controlled conditions, minimising disruptions, reducing safety risks and ensuring smooth integration into high-security environments for our teams and clients,” states Olivier.

Modular designs are scalable, allowing for rapid assembly of customised multi-unit structures. Their flexibility makes them ideal for dynamic, high-pressure mining environments where operational requirements can shift quickly.

Mining projects often face unpredictable timelines and delays. Once decisions are made, companies expect quick mobilisation, especially in remote locations with minimal infrastructure, says Waco Modular Zambia branch manager Robert Henderson.

“Waco Modular excels in off-site manufacturing and assembly, significantly reducing deployment times and on-site disruption. Depending on the size of the project, we can deliver fully functional buildings within days, allowing clients to maintain operations without delays,” he adds.

Henderson also highlights the increasing demand for various purpose-built modular units, including a recent custom-designed blasting observation auditorium with a full glass façade, enabling safe real-time monitoring of blasting operations.

“We’re also finalising a change house for miners to have a clean, secure space to change and shower after shifts, boosting hygiene, safety and morale on-site,” he says.

Engineered For Zambia’s Demanding Conditions

Purpose-built for Zambia’s demanding mining environments, Waco Modular’s solutions use robust materials and modular flexibility for durability and easy maintenance.

“Each unit is engineered to perform in extreme conditions, ensuring mobility and resilience as operational demands and infrastructure evolve,” Henderson highlights.

To strategically meet the growing demand for mining accommodation solutions in Zambia, Waco Modular has opened a dedicated branch in Solwezi, specifically to serve mining projects.

Olivier notes that this branch is fully equipped with its own branch manager, stock and a dedicated team, thereby ensuring that mining clients receive timely and efficient support without delays caused by distance from the main operations.

“Using the EzeeSpace V3 product, buildings are transported in kit form to Zambia, where local teams handle the assembly, erection and internal fitments. This approach allows for skills transfer and workforce development, as local employees gain hands-on experience in constructing modular infrastructure to international standards,” he explains.

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