By Ellen Hambuba
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA is seeking fresh capital to expand Zambia’s mining sector, create jobs for young people and increase revenue for public services.
The move comes as Zambia targets annual copper production of three million tonnes by 2031.
State House Chief Communications Specialist CLAYSON HAMASAKA says the Government will rely on increased and responsible mining investment to achieve this target.
Mr .HAMASAKA says it is for this reason that President HICHILEMA is in Cape Town, South Africa, where he is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at Mining Indaba 2026, Africa’s largest mining investment forum.
He says Zambia’s improved mining performance has strengthened the country’s appeal to investors.
Mr. HAMASAKA says copper output rose to 890,346 metric tonnes in 2025, representing an eight per cent increase from the previous year and the highest production level in recent years.
He says major investments are already translating into employment opportunities.
In a statement to ZNBC News today, Mr. HAMASAKA said the 1.25 billion United States dollar S3 expansion at Kansanshi Mine has extended operations by 20 years and secured thousands of jobs.
He said mines that previously faced closure, including Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines, are now operational, expanding and recruiting workers.
Mr. HAMASAKA said growth in the mining sector must support the wider economy.
He added that infrastructure linked to mining, such as the Western Corridor road upgrade connecting North-Western and Western provinces, is improving connectivity and reducing the cost of doing business.
Mr .HAMASAKA said the President is using the Mining Indaba platform to present Zambia as a stable, reliable and responsible destination for long-term mining investment.
