Mining Reforms Boost Copper Output


Siakalenge says stable policies under 8NDP attract investment and push Zambia toward one million tonnes goal

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 -- 31-10-2025) - Zambia’s ongoing policy and institutional reforms have begun to yield positive results in the mining sector, with copper production rising steadily and the country edging closer to its long-term output goal.

Acting Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr. Siazongo Siakalenge, said this when he officially opened the National Development Coordinating Committee (NDCC) meeting in Lusaka on Thursday, noting that government reforms under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) have created a stable and predictable investment environment that is attracting new capital and stimulating growth in the extractive industry.

He disclosed that copper production rose from 786,194 metric tonnes in 2023 to 876,076 metric tonnes in 2024, moving Zambia closer to achieving its target of one million metric tonnes per year.

“Through these reforms, we have established a stable mining fiscal regime, attracted new investments, enhanced efficiency, and improved the overall performance of the sector,” he said.

Mr. Siakalenge said government remains committed to ensuring that production growth is achieved in a transparent, accountable, and environmentally sustainable manner, with proper monitoring of economic activities.

He added that the country’s growth potential extends beyond copper to other minerals such as gold and lithium, which are essential to the global green energy transition.

He urged all players in the sector — including artisanal, small-scale, and large-scale operators — to comply with legal and regulatory frameworks, maintain safety standards, and promote responsible mining practices.

Mr. Siakalenge further called on stakeholders to focus on high-impact initiatives as the 8NDP implementation period draws to a close, saying success will depend on strengthened collaboration among government, the private sector, and civil society.

He also commended the private sector, cooperating partners, and civil society organizations for supporting government programmes, urging continued partnership to sustain progress and drive lasting transformation.

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