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Zambia's Mining Agenda Takes Center Stage At Investing In African Mining Indaba 2026

Zambia's mining sector is set for a significant year in 2026, with the Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition (ZIMEC 2026) scheduled to take place from March 25-26. The conference will focus on the evolving dynamics of Zambia's mining and energy sectors, including responsible investment, energy market reform, regional value chains, transparency, and the role of partnerships in unlocking capital and capability. Zambia's mining sector remains central to the national economy, accounting for approximately 70% of export earnings, with a long-term target of three million metric tons of annual copper production by 2031. The country is also attracting attention for its endowment of critical minerals, including cobalt, manganese, nickel, and lithium, alongside ongoing reforms aimed at improving governance, transparency, and investor confidence. Energy remains a parallel priority as Zambia works to strengthen power generation, promote private-sector participation, and develop regional electricity trading mechanisms to support mining expansion and industrialisation.

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Zambia's Mining Reform Agenda

The Zambian government is poised to showcase its commitment to mining reforms during the upcoming Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026, scheduled to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 9 to 12. This event serves as a global platform for dialogue on mining, where key stakeholders converge to discuss the future of the industry in Africa.

President Hakainde Hichilema's Keynote

President Hakainde Hichilema has been confirmed as the keynote speaker for the opening ceremony, placing Zambia at the forefront of conversations about mining reforms. His presence and participation signify a critical shift in the Zambian mining sector, marking a transition from policy discussions to actionable frameworks geared towards mineral sector development.

Focus on Regulatory Certainty and Sustainable Growth

As the demand for copper and critical minerals escalates globally, President Hichilema's address is expected to magnify the importance of regulatory certainty and institutional reform. By creating an environment that fosters investor confidence, Zambia aims to demonstrate that it is not merely a resource-rich jurisdiction but also a dynamic partner eager to embrace technological advancements in mining.

Through strategic reforms, the Zambian government aims to unlock sustainable mining growth that aligns with global standards. This commitment is crucial for attracting foreign investment, which is essential for developing the country's rich mineral resources.

As stakeholders prepare for this significant event, the anticipation surrounding Hichilema's address reflects the broader hope for a sustainable mining sector in Zambia capable of meeting the rising global demand for essential minerals.

In conclusion, the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026 provides not only an opportunity for Zambia to showcase its mining potential but also to establish the groundwork for a more structured and reform-oriented mining industry. With President Hichilema leading the charge, the message is clear: Zambia is ready for investment, reform, and a future built on the sustainable extraction of its abundant mineral wealth.