Cape Town, South Africa —

In early 2025, Zambia initiated several strategic programs aimed at speeding up copper extraction with the objective of achieving an annual production rate of 3.1 million tons by 2031. Specifically, in February 2025, the nation implemented new measures
Zambian Comprehensive Mining Data System
, an online solution aimed at improving efficiency and openness in managing mining licenses. This system is anticipated to simplify the approval process and assist Zambia in attracting additional investments and accelerating exploration activities.

As part of Zambia’s initiatives to boost copper exploration, the forthcoming African Mining Week conference and expo, scheduled for October 1-3 in Cape Town, will offer an opportunity to highlight attractive investment prospects in the nation’s nascent mining sector.


Government Programs

In order to foster a more favorable setting for copper extraction, Zambia has introduced various state-driven programs. The nation disclosed a non-compliance tracking initiative in February 2025; this resulted in the revocation of more than 1,000 mining permits during 2024.

These permits are currently being redistributed to new investors with the aim of speeding up exploration activities and aiding the attainment of its 2031 production target. The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development reports that Zambia saw a substantial rise of 79% in mining licenses issued in 2024 as opposed to the previous year.

In collaboration with the Geological Survey of Finland, the government has launched a comprehensive national project for conducting detailed airborne geophysical surveys aimed at mapping mineral deposits and identifying potential new mining areas. Furthermore, the government has set up the Zambia Minerals Investment Corporation Limited, a specialized entity designed to promote collaborative investment opportunities in exploration activities, extraction processes, and mineral refining operations.

On January 16, 2025, the nation entered into an accord with Saudi Arabia aimed at boosting human resource growth, advancing technological exchange, and increasing financial commitments to copper extraction and processing activities. Additionally, governmental efforts have been crucial in reviving dormant mining ventures such as Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines, thereby opening up fresh prospects for mineral discovery.


Private Sector Contributions

The private sector is also playing a role in expanding copper exploration in Zambia. In January 2025,
Barrick Gold
revealed its intentions to employ a fresh exploration permit in northern Zambia and proceed with drilling activities at Lumwana, aligning with their dedication to achieving Zambia’s production target for 2031.

The UK-based
Jubilee Metals Group
is initiating multiple drilling initiatives to foster expansion at both its Roan and Sable Refinery locations. Meanwhile, Handa Resources, a partnership between Arc Minerals and Anglo American, commenced drilling activities over three recently sanctioned permits in Zambia back in January 2025.

African Mining Week, as the leading event for mining investments on the continent, will gather major players, governmental representatives, and international financiers to explore and enhance prospects within Zambia’s copper extraction and production sector.