Prof. DSc. Eng. Tzolo Voutov becomes Honorary Citizen of Chelopech Municipality
Prof. DSc. Eng. Tzolo Voutov received the highest distinction awarded by Chelopech Municipality at a solemn ceremony held in the village of Chelopech. The honour was presented in recognition of his outstanding achievements and lasting contributions to the social and economic life of the community.
The ceremony was opened with a lively performance of the municipal anthem by the children from Srednogorski Zvan Vocal Group. The event was attended by Mayor M.Eng. Aleksi Kesyakov, members of the Municipal Council and representatives of Ellatzite-Med AD and Geotechmin OOD.
The title of Honorary Citizen has been awarded only twice in the history of Chelopech Municipality, making this recognition especially significant.
Mayor M.Eng. Aleksi Kesyakov emphasized that the award is bestowed only on rare occasions, as a token of recognition for truly exceptional merits. ‘Prof. Voutov is widely known for his social commitment and philanthropy – even children know him,’ the Mayor said. ‘But the main reason why he deserves this high honour is his remarkable scientific and R&D work.’ Furthermore, the Mayor highlighted that Prof. Voutov’s innovations in mining technology – particularly in converting low-grade ores into economically viable ones – have played a critical role in securing the region’s economic future. ‘Thanks to his scientific achievements and the company he leads, our mining region has a future we can plan for with confidence – not only for ourselves, but also for our children,’ he added.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Voutov reflected on the great and positive changes he had witnessed in the region over the decades. He recalled the late 1970s, when Chelopech and Ellatzite mines operated as one company, and paid tribute to the late Ivan Kesyakov, father of the present Mayor, with whom he had ‘worked together on projects to improve and advance Chelopech mine.’
‘Chelopech mine was once closed and flooded,’ he recalled. ‘But thanks to the scientists, engineers and especially the local community who placed their trust in Ivan Kesyakov, and in the present Mayor of Chelopech, today we can all be proud of what we have achieved,’ said Prof. Voutov. He added that, as a result of ongoing scientific and geological efforts – and the dedicated work of mining specialists – the life of Ellatzite mine has been extended by 25 years and the company continues to thrive, providing long-term employment and stability for the region.
‘The Bulgarian Virtues Programme is not an end in itself… When business and communities work together, we achieve results that positively impact everyone’s lives.’
The motifs for bestowing the Honorary Citizen title were outlined during the ceremony. They include the optimization of mining and ore-beneficiation processes; the sustainable management of underground and open-pit mines; the implementation of advanced technologies to reduce environmental impact; advances in automation and digitalization within the mining sector.
In addition to his professional achievements, Prof. Voutov is highly respected for his long-standing charitable work and contributions to the region’s sustainable development. His philanthropic efforts include awarding scholarships to students, funding the renovation and construction of
playgrounds, schools, and hospitals, as well as supporting cultural and sports events. His largest charitable initiative, the Bulgarian Virtues Programme, has been recognized as a successful model of corporate social responsibility, fostering the advancement of local communities based on universally shared values.
With this honour, Chelopech Municipality acknowledges not only an entrepreneur, scientist and visionary in the mining industry, but also a man whose heart remains close to the people of Srednogorie region.
