By Cecilia Chiluba 
Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development says the continued expansion of the mining industry in the past four years is a testament of the available investment opportunities in Zambia.
Making a virtual presentation at the 2025 Africa Down under conference being held in Perth, Australia, Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta noted that over 7,500 new jobs were created in the mining sector during the period under review.
Dr. Kabeta highlighted other key achievements in the sector, including the 12 percent surge in copper production in 2024, reaching 824,186 metric tons, with current production levels surpassing those of the same period last year.
He pointed out that the mining sector has seen significant investment growth over the past four years, with notable projects like the US$2 billion Barrick Lumwana super pit expansion project.
The expansion is expected to contribute substantially to Zambia’s economy, building on the mine’s existing impact, which includes economic contribution, job creation, and local procurement.
Dr. Kabeta also cited First Quantum Minerals (FQM) S3 Expansion worth US$1.15 billion, US$1.5 billion in Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) asset under Vedanta Resources and Kobold Metals investment of US$200 million, with over US$2 billion earmarked for Mingomba Mine development.
“Efforts are ongoing to formalize unlicensed community miners, with over 1,200 Artisanal Mining Rights (AMRs) issued in the last four years.”
“Significant investments are needed to meet the growing demand for copper and cobalt. Opportunities exist for mining lithium, nickel, and rare earth elements,” Dr. Kabeta said.
He added that the country has potential for refining, smelting, and manufacturing, thereby creating opportunities for downstream processes.
“The government is supporting exploration through a nationwide geophysical airborne survey and data availability,” he added.
News Desk 
Lucky Chama