ZAMBIA UNVEILS VAST MINERAL RESERVES TO MEET GLOBAL DEMAND SURGE

Zambia’s new geological report highlights its critical mineral wealth, positioning it as a key global supplier by 2040.

Zambia minerals Critical minerals Copper production
Colbat
Colbat

Zambia has released a comprehensive geological report detailing its vast reserves of critical minerals, positioning the country as a pivotal global supplier amid rising demand. Developed by the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development with the British Geological Survey, the report underscores Zambia’s potential to meet soaring needs for lithium (350% by 2040), graphite (130%), rare earths (65%), and copper (40%).

As the world’s 10th-largest copper producer, contributing 3% of global output, Zambia aims to triple production to three million tonnes annually by 2031. Major projects like Sinomine Resources’ Kitumba Mine, Mimosa Resources’ Kashime Mine, and KoBold Metals’ Mingomba Mine are set to launch by 2026. Cobalt production is also expanding, with six operations active and Africa’s first cobalt sulphate refinery, a $100 million project by Kobaloni Energy, backed by Vision Blue and the Africa Finance Corporation, due by late 2025.

The report highlights growing investments in manganese, nickel, lithium, and graphite. Musamu Resources’ Luongo Mine is boosting manganese output, while First Quantum Minerals and Mabiza Resources expand nickel production. High-grade graphite deposits in Petauke, Lundazi, and Kapiri Mposhi, alongside First Africa Metals’ lithium exploration in the Choma Belt, signal robust growth. Rare earth projects, led by Antler Gold’s Kesya and x-RAM Traws’ Nkombwa Hill, are gaining traction, with columbite-tantalite exploration advancing in Southern and north-eastern provinces.

Ahead of African Mining Week in Cape Town (October 1-3), a panel on Zambia’s licensing strategy will showcase its plan to attract global investment, reinforcing its role in sustainable mineral supply chains.

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