Hichilema Calls For Regional Mining Partnerships And Greater Local Content
LUSAKA, October 19, 2026 — President Hakainde Hichilema has called for stronger regional partnerships, increased investment in mineral exploration and greater participation of Zambian businesses in the mining sector to ensure that Africa derives greater economic benefits from its mineral resources.
Speaking during the official opening of the Third Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka 2026 in Lusaka, President Hichilema said African countries must move beyond exporting raw minerals and instead invest in mineral processing, manufacturing and regional value chains.
The five-day event, running from October 19 to 23 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, is being held under the theme, “Transforming Africa’s Mining Landscape: Regional Value Chains, Shared Prosperity and Empowering Communities.”
President Hichilema urged mining companies to prioritise local suppliers and support the development of Zambian businesses capable of providing quality goods and services at competitive prices.
He cited locally manufactured electrical cables and mill balls used in mining operations as examples of how domestic production can strengthen supply chains, create employment and expand business opportunities.
The President also stressed that the benefits of mining should extend beyond corporate social responsibility projects to include jobs, skills development, technology transfer and contracts for businesses in communities surrounding mining operations.
On mineral exploration, President Hichilema said Zambia needs increased investment to support its ambition of producing three million metric tonnes of copper annually by 2031.
He disclosed that Government had invested nearly US$100 million in a high-resolution geophysical survey covering the country's 752,000 square kilometres to help identify mineral deposits and guide investment decisions.
The President further called for stronger cooperation between Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Botswana to develop regional mineral value chains, strengthen cross-border industrial partnerships and attract investment.
He said the three countries could collaborate in areas such as energy infrastructure, electric vehicle manufacturing and battery production to ensure that more value from Africa's mineral resources remains within the region.
President Hichilema also urged mining companies holding licences without developing their mineral assets to either proceed with exploration and mine development or consider partnerships and joint ventures with capable investors.
He said unlocking undeveloped mineral resources would help accelerate production, attract investment and create more employment opportunities.
The Insaka brings together government representatives, mining companies, investors and development partners to explore investment opportunities, address challenges affecting the mining industry and promote regional cooperation.
The discussions are expected to contribute to Zambia's broader economic transformation agenda through increased mineral production, local value addition and stronger participation of domestic businesses in the mining supply chain.