Zambia’s copper production increased by 12% in 2024, reaching approximately 820,670 metric tons, up from 732,580 tons in the previous year.
This growth was driven by a recovery in output at key mines, underscoring the sector’s vital role in Zambia’s economic expansion, according to Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe.
Key contributors to the rise include Barrick Gold’s Lumwana mine, which ramped up production, and Vedanta Resources’ Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), which resumed operations.
Additionally, output at Mopani Copper Mines increased, following its acquisition by UAE’s International Resources Holding.
Despite challenges like electricity shortages caused by a severe drought impacting hydroelectric power generation, production continued to grow.
Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper producer after the Democratic Republic of Congo, is aiming to boost annual copper output to 3 million tons within the next decade.
Major investments are fueling this growth, with Vedanta committing $1.3 billion to revitalize KCM, and other companies, including Barrick and First Quantum Minerals, expanding their operations.
Furthermore, US-backed KoBold Metals is planning a $2-billion copper mine in Zambia, further contributing to the sector’s promising outlook.
