Zambia will not take sides in the geopolitical competition for critical minerals, President Hakainde Hichilema has said, stressing that African resource producers should focus on economic growth rather than political alignment with global powers.
Speaking about investment in copper mining, Hichilema said Zambia intends to work with partners from Washington, Beijing, and Brussels on mutually beneficial terms as global demand rises for minerals used in energy transition, defence, and infrastructure.
The president said reforms introduced since he took office in 2021 have revived Zambia’s mining sector and strengthened the country’s position in negotiations with investors.
Key developments
• Zambia aims to increase copper production to 1 million tonnes annually in 2026, up from about 890,000 tonnes in 2025.
• The government plans to expand output to 3 million tonnes per year by 2031.
• More than $12 billion in mining investment has entered the sector since Hichilema took office.
• Major projects include $1.1bn investment by International Resources (UAE) in Mopani Copper Mines and a $2bn expansion by Barrick Mining at Lumwana.
The IMF forecasts Zambia’s economy will grow 5.8% in 2026, supported by strong copper prices and recovery from drought.
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