Cape Town, South Africa — Zambia has launched a series of strategic initiatives in 2025 to accelerate copper drilling and meet its target of producing 3.1 million tons per annum by 2031. In February 2025, the country introduced the Zambia Integrated Mining Information System , a digital platform designed to enhance efficiency and transparency in mining license management. The system is expected to streamline the approval process and help Zambia attract more investors and fast-track exploration.
In line with efforts by Zambia to enhance copper exploration, the upcoming African Mining Wee conference and exhibition, taking place from October 1-3 in Cape Town, will provide a platform to showcase lucrative investment opportunities within the country’s upstream industry.
Government Programs
To create a more conducive environment for copper drilling, Zambia is implementing several government-led initiatives. In February 2025, the country announced a non-compliance monitoring project, which led to the repossession of over 1,000 mining licenses in 2024 alone.
These licenses are now being reallocated to new investors to accelerate exploration efforts and help achieve its 2031 production goal. Zambia has also recorded a 79% increase in mining licenses granted in 2024 compared to 2023, according to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.
The government – in partnership with the Geological Survey of Finland – is implementing a nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey to map mineral resources and open new exploration basins. Additionally, the government established the Zambia Minerals Investment Corporation Limited, a special-purpose vehicle to facilitate joint venture investments in exploration, production and mineral processing.
On January 16, 2025, the nation entered into an accord with Saudi Arabia aimed at boosting human resource growth, advancing technological exchange, and fostering investment in copper extraction and processing activities. Additionally, governmental efforts have been crucial in reviving dormant mining ventures such as those seen at 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 Zambia’s copper drilling efforts. In January 2025, Barrick Gold stated 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 Several drilling initiatives are being carried out by the company to foster expansion at 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.
As Africa’s premier mining investment platform, African Mining Week will bring together key stakeholders, government officials and global investors to discuss and optimize opportunities within Zambia’s copper exploration and production industry.