Zambia’s nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey has reached 94.2% completion as the Government works to expand annual copper production to three million metric tonnes.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Dr Hapenga Kabeta, said the survey is providing updated geological information to support mineral exploration, investment decisions and long-term mining planning.
The survey, launched in 2024 by President Hakainde Hichilema, is intended to improve the country’s understanding of its mineral potential by providing detailed geological data.
Dr Kabeta said accurate geological information was critical to identifying mineral deposits and guiding investment as Zambia seeks to increase mineral production.
The progress on mineral mapping comes as the Government pursues a strategy to raise annual copper production to three million metric tonnes as part of its wider economic transformation agenda.
Dr Kabeta said achieving the copper target would require significant investment in mining infrastructure, energy and other supporting sectors.
He said increased production could also generate employment, stimulate investment and increase resources available for national development.
Beyond increasing copper output, Dr Kabeta said the Government was focused on ensuring greater value was retained within the country through local beneficiation and value addition.
He said the National Critical Minerals Strategy and Local Content Regulations were intended to increase local participation in mining and ensure Zambian businesses benefit more directly from increased mining activity.
Dr Kabeta also said the Government was pursuing reforms to create a predictable policy and regulatory environment for mining investment, alongside measures to promote responsible and sustainable mining.
He said the Environmental Protection Fund would help ensure resources are available to address environmental liabilities associated with mining activities.
