Zambia Launches First High-Resolution Aerial Survey Since 1972 to Boost Mining Sector

In a major initiative to rejuvenate Zambia's mining sector, President Hakainde Hichilema has launched the country's first high-resolution aerial geophysical mapping survey since 1972. Conducted by Xcalibur, the survey will take place over the next 18 to 24 months and aims to provide accurate and up-to-date data on Zambia's mineral resources. This project marks a significant departure from the outdated information that has been relied upon for exploration activities for decades.

President Hichilema underscored the importance of the project, emphasizing its role in "injecting order in the mining sector to realize the full potential of our resources." He also pointed out that despite increased investments in existing mines like Mopani Copper Mines, Konkola Copper Mines, and Shaft 28 in Luanshya, current production levels will not be sufficient to meet the country’s ambitious copper production goals. The President called for better-structured transactions and additional investments to drive economic growth, job creation, and overall economic functionality.

The Xcalibur survey, which will commence in the western part of Zambia, includes a training component for Zambians from the Ministry of Mines, ensuring knowledge transfer and long-term benefits from the project. The data gathered will bring Zambia's mining sector in line with global standards, comparable to surveys conducted in resource-rich countries like Australia.

Meanwhile, Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe announced that Mopani Copper Mines is on track to double its current copper production to 120,000 tonnes by the end of the year. This increase aligns with the government's broader strategy to enhance the mining sector's contribution to the economy and achieve a copper production target of 1 million tonnes by 2027, with a longer-term goal of 3 million tonnes by 2030, as previously outlined by Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane.