Japan Allocates $1.2 Million to Enhance Zambia’s Mining Sector
In a move to support Zambia’s goal of expanding its mining capacity, the government of Japan has provided $1.2 million in grant aid. The funds will be used to procure laboratory equipment for Zambia’s Geological Survey Department, enhancing its ability to identify viable mining locations and improve operational efficiency in the sector.
Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane welcomed the grant, stating, “The new equipment will not only improve the accuracy and efficiency of geological surveys but also attract further investment into Zambia’s mining sector. Increased investment will create more jobs and support value-addition industries.”
Strengthening the mining sector will also position Zambia more competitively in global trade and boost tax revenues, enabling the government to intensify its fight against poverty.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which facilitated the grant, has a long-standing commitment to supporting Zambia’s sustainable mineral resource development.
JICA Chief Representative Tateyama Jotaro emphasized that the funding would enhance mineral analysis capacity, strengthen Zambia’s economy, and foster deeper trade relations between the two nations.
“This grant for the economic and social development program is part of our continued assistance, complementing human resource development,” he stated during the agreement’s announcement.
With this support, Zambia remains optimistic about achieving its target of producing 3 million metric tonnes of copper annually by 2031. Japan’s cooperation marks a significant step toward realizing this goal.
