At the 2022 Mining Indaba, President Hakainde Hichilema set out a clear vision to revive Zambia’s struggling mining sector and restore investor confidence. Four years later, at the 2026 Indaba, he returned with measurable progress and strong results to back that vision. When his administration took office, the sector faced declining production, strained investor relations and operational uncertainty at key mines. The government responded with policy reforms, debt restructuring efforts and renewed engagement with global mining houses. Those early interventions have now translated into over 12 billion US dollars in new mining investment, signaling renewed trust in Zambia’s copper industry.
Major mining operations that once faced uncertainty are now firmly back on track. Kansanshi, Lumwana, Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines have all recorded renewed activity and expansion plans. These developments have directly contributed to a 12 percent increase in copper production in 2024, followed by a further 8 percent rise in 2025. Higher output has strengthened Zambia’s position as one of Africa’s leading copper producers at a time when global demand for critical minerals continues to grow. The recovery also reflects improved regulatory stability and a more predictable tax framework designed to attract long term capital.
President Hichilema made it clear that the progress achieved so far is only the beginning. The government has set an ambitious target of reaching 3 million tonnes of copper production within the next decade. To support this goal, Zambia’s geological survey is expanding exploration data and opening new areas for prospecting. New international investors are entering the market, drawn by improved transparency and growth potential in battery minerals and copper. At the same time, the state is investing in infrastructure, energy supply and institutional reforms to ensure mining growth remains sustainable and competitive.
The broader economic impact of this mining revival remains central to the administration’s message. Increased mining activity translates into more direct and indirect jobs for Zambians across the value chain. Higher production also generates greater tax revenues, which fund schools, clinics and social services. Local businesses in transport, engineering, catering and construction benefit from stronger supply chain demand. The government aims to ensure that resource wealth delivers tangible benefits for communities rather than remaining confined to balance sheets.
As he addressed delegates at the 2026 Mining Indaba, President Hichilema emphasized that Zambia is open for business, politically stable and committed to policy consistency. The administration’s reforms have laid a foundation for long term growth in the mining sector. With production rising, fresh capital flowing in and exploration expanding, the country is positioning itself for sustained output growth. The message to global investors is clear. Zambia has moved from recovery to expansion, and the results presented at the Indaba mark a turning point for one of Africa’s most important mining economies.