In a bold push to become a top copper producer, Zambia has unveiled a range of strategic initiatives in 2025 aimed at accelerating copper drilling and achieving its ambitious target of producing 3.1 million tons annually by 2031.
A key development is the launch of the Zambia Integrated Mining Information System (ZIMIS), introduced in February 2025. The platform — accessible via www.MMMD.gov.zm — is designed to improve transparency and efficiency in the management of mining licenses. By streamlining the approval process, the digital tool is expected to attract more investors and fast-track exploration activities across the country.
Zambia’s upstream mining potential will take center stage at the African Mining Week conference and exhibition, scheduled for October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town. The event will serve as a vital platform for promoting investment opportunities in Zambia’s rapidly evolving copper industry.
The Zambian government has rolled out several initiatives to foster a more investor-friendly environment. One of the most significant moves was the launch of a non-compliance monitoring project, which resulted in the repossession of over 1,000 mining licenses in 2024 alone. These licenses are now being redistributed to new investors committed to advancing exploration.
In 2024, Zambia also recorded a 79% increase in mining licenses issued compared to the previous year, underscoring the country’s growing focus on exploration. To support this momentum, the government has partnered with the Geological Survey of Finland to conduct a nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey, mapping mineral resources and identifying new exploration zones.
Further bolstering investment, Zambia has established the Zambia Minerals Investment Corporation Limited — a special-purpose vehicle created to facilitate joint venture investments across exploration, production, and processing. In another significant move, the country signed a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia in January 2025 to foster technology transfer, skill development, and new investments in the copper sector.
Efforts to revive dormant mining operations, such as Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines, have also created fresh opportunities for drilling and exploration.
The private sector is playing a vital role in advancing Zambia’s copper ambitions. In January 2025, Barrick Gold announced the development of a new exploration license in northern Zambia, along with continued drilling at its Lumwana site, aligning with the national 2031 production target.
UK-based Jubilee Metals Group is actively expanding its operations at the Roan and Sable Refinery sites through new drilling projects. Meanwhile, Handa Resources — a joint venture between Arc Minerals and Anglo American — began drilling at three newly approved license areas earlier this year.
With robust government policies, increased private sector participation, and growing investor interest, Zambia is well on its way to reshaping its copper industry. The upcoming African Mining Week will be a pivotal event to showcase these developments and attract the partnerships necessary to realize Zambia’s 2031 vision.