The World Bank has called on Zambia to significantly expand its production of energy transition metals (ETMs), including copper, cobalt and manganese, to support sustainable economic growth and bolster fiscal resilience.
In its latest economic update, released in Lusaka on July 9, the World Bank noted that Zambia’s GDP grew by 4% in 2024—largely driven by a resurgence in mining activity.
The report underscores the country’s potential to become a key player in the global green energy supply chain, especially as demand for ETMs accelerates worldwide.
“Accelerating the production of copper, cobalt, and manganese would strengthen fiscal sustainability, increase opportunities for value addition in the mining chain, and support national ambitions,” the Bank said, referencing Zambia’s goal to triple annual copper output to 3 million tonnes by 2031.
Copper production has already shown strong momentum. Between the first quarter of 2024 and 2025, output jumped from 173,000 to 224,000 tonnes—an increase of nearly 30%.
This growth has been bolstered by flagship mining projects, including the Kashime copper development by Mimosa Resources, the revival of the Konkola operations under Vedanta Resources, and the Mopani mine now managed by International Resources Holding.
To support sector transparency and efficiency, Zambia has completed 80% of its national geo-mapping initiative and launched the Zambia Integrated Mining Information System (ZIMIS)—a digital platform for tracking tax contributions, monitoring local content compliance, and making geological data accessible to the public.
Responding to the World Bank’s call for better governance, the Ministry of Mines is establishing a Minerals Regulatory Commission and reorganizing its internal structures to enhance oversight of geology, artisanal mining, and large-scale investment promotion.
Meanwhile, the government is rolling out mineral marketing centers and washing facilities in Mumbwa, Rufunsa, Chisamba, and Kasempa.
A national training program for artisanal miners is also underway, aimed at increasing local participation in the mining value chain.
These developments will be showcased at Africa Mining Week 2025, held from October 1 to 3 in Cape Town, where Zambia will present its new Mining Strategy during a dedicated session titled “Zambia: Accelerating Exploration and Development through Licensing.”
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