By John Chola
The third day of the Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka, currently underway in Lusaka, opened with a keynote presentation from Mr. Andrew Chibuye, Senior Partner at PwC, on Zambia’s ambitious goal of achieving a three-million-tonne annual copper production target by 2031.
Chibuye outlined the necessary steps, from policy reforms to increased investment, emphasizing Zambia’s unique position to capitalize on its vast mineral wealth.
Chibuye noted that Zambia stands to reap hugely from the mining sector should investment prospects be realized and the mining environment continues to be conducive.
Following the keynote, a high-level panel discussion brought together key government ministers to discuss policy pathways for meeting this target.
The panel, moderated by renowned International Economists Professor Oliver Saasa, included Paul Kabuswe, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning, Makozo Chikote, Minister of Energy, and Charles Milupi, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development.
The ministers focus on streamlining investment procedures, enhancing infrastructure, and improving energy supply for the mining sector.
A key takeaway was the need for close collaboration between various government arms to unlock Zambia’s mining potential.
The afternoon session shifted focus to critical minerals, a sector gaining global attention due to the rising demand for green technologies.
Dr. Marit Kitaw, Director of the African Minerals Development Center (AMDC) at the African Union, delivered a keynote address on how Africa, particularly Zambia, could leverage its resource endowment to position itself as a key player in the global critical minerals supply chain. Kitaw stressed the importance of beneficiation and the creation of local value chains to ensure that Africa retains more of the value derived from its resources.
A panel discussion followed, with contributions from industry experts including Mr. Gerald Mwila, Director of the Geological Survey Department, Dr. Sakwiba Musiwa from the University of Zambia, and Eng. Sokwani Chilembo, CEO of the Zambia Chamber of Mines.
The panel, moderated by Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines, explored how Zambia could secure its place in the global critical minerals market through improved regulatory frameworks and strategic partnerships.
The day’s proceedings concluded with breakaway sessions addressing critical mineral value chains, legal and policy frameworks, and supply chain security.
These sessions provided a platform for deeper discussions on how Zambia can navigate the challenges and opportunities in the evolving mineral market.
As the Insaka continues, the conversations are expected to shape Zambia’s mining policy landscape, particularly concerning its copper and critical minerals sectors
