About our Zambia Mining news
Latest news on Zambia mining, covering copper, cobalt, gold operations, investments, policy changes, ZCCM-IH updates and developments in the Copperbelt.
Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer, maintains a mining sector that contributes over 10% to its GDP with copper as the primary export. The country's mining industry employs roughly 90,000 people directly and supports hundreds of thousands more indirectly, with major operations concentrated in the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces.
Recent developments include the government's ongoing efforts to stabilise mining royalty rates and attract greater investment to the sector. Zambia's push toward mining diversification beyond copper, particularly into cobalt, gold, and manganese, reflects its strategy to reduce economic vulnerability to copper price fluctuations. The Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) continues to expand its portfolio through strategic partnerships with international mining houses.
The mining sector significantly impacts local communities across Zambia's mining regions. Corporate social responsibility programmes from major mining companies have funded schools, hospitals, and infrastructure projects, though relationships between mining operations and local populations remain complex. Artisanal and small-scale mining provides livelihoods for many rural Zambians, particularly in emerald and gold extraction.
Zambia's mining history dates back to the 1920s, when commercial copper extraction began under British colonial rule. Following nationalisation in the 1970s and subsequent privatisation in the 1990s, the industry has experienced cycles of boom and bust. Today's mining landscape reflects this complex heritage, with ongoing debates about how to balance foreign investment with national economic interests.
Our NewsNow feed on Zambia's mining sector brings you comprehensive, up-to-date coverage from reliable sources. Whether you're an investor, industry professional, or policy observer, stay informed about the latest developments shaping this crucial sector of the Zambian economy and its impact on global mineral markets.