Zambia Showcases Mining Reforms and Investment Drive at Mining Indaba 2025

The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to expanding its mining sector through key policy reforms and strategic investments aimed at driving sustainable growth and increasing mineral production.

Speaking at the Association of Zambian Mineral Exploration Companies (AZMEC) Business Breakfast during Mining Indaba 2025, Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, representing Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Hon. Paul C. Kabuswe, emphasized the government’s dedication to making Zambia a top destination for mining investment.

“Zambia is open for business, and we are demonstrating this through action, not just words,” Dr. Kabeta stated, highlighting ongoing reforms and initiatives designed to attract global investors.

The government has introduced several reforms to strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance local participation in the mining sector, including:

• Minerals Regulation Commission Act – This new legislation increases government oversight of mining activities while ensuring regulatory clarity for investors.
• Geological and Minerals Development Bill – Set to replace the 2015 Mines and Minerals Development Act, this bill aims to accelerate geological mapping and support artisanal and small-scale mining.
• Local Content Regulations – Draft regulations are being finalized to promote Zambian businesses by reserving mining supply chain contracts for local companies.
• Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) – The newly established Zambia Minerals Investment Corporation Limited will facilitate joint ventures between the government and private investors, ensuring greater value addition within the sector.
• Critical Minerals Regulations – These regulations will position Zambia as a key supplier of essential minerals for the global energy transition and decarbonization efforts.

As part of its strategy to increase copper production to three million metric tonnes by 2031, the government launched a nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey in August 2024 to enhance exploration activities and attract new investments.

The event also acknowledged key industry players, including GoviEx Uranium, KoBold Metals, Anglo American, and Lumwana Mine, for their contributions to exploration and production efforts in Zambia.

Dr. Kabeta assured stakeholders that Zambia provides a stable and favorable investment environment, with strong legal protections for investors.

He also encouraged industry players to explore opportunities in gemstone mining, industrial minerals, and oil and gas exploration.

“With these strategic reforms and investments, Zambia’s mining sector is undergoing a transformation that will not only boost production but also create jobs and improve livelihoods,” he concluded.

The AZMEC Business Breakfast at Mining Indaba 2025, supported by sponsors such as Stanbic Bank, Xcalibur, and Africast, provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of Zambia’s mining sector and explore new opportunities.

For further information, investors and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development at upcoming industry events