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President Hakainde Hichilema has called for increased investment in Zambia’s mining and energy sectors as he officially opened the 13th edition of the Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference (ZIMEC) in Kitwe.
According to the organisers, conference, which attracted delegates from 27 countries, was held under the theme, “Promoting responsible investment and partnerships to sustainably grow Zambia’s Mining and Energy sectors.”
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hichilema urged investors to leverage the country’s ongoing high-resolution aerial mapping to identify opportunities for mineral exploration and development.
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He said achieving Zambia’s target of three million tonnes of copper production would require significant investment in both new and existing mining operations.
“Since 2022, Zambia has attracted US$12 billion in mining investments. We have positioned the sector for growth and are resolute in meeting our three-million-tonne copper target,” Hichilema said.
He also emphasized the need for additional investment in the energy sector to achieve the country’s goal of 10,000 megawatts of power within the next decade, while encouraging regional funding for infrastructure projects.
Mines and Mineral Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, said Zambia was ready for mining investments, citing government policies designed to support sector growth.
Organizers, AME Trade, highlighted the importance of supporting small-scale miners through funding and training, while Kitwe District Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Alinani Simumba said ZIMEC had provided a valuable platform for promoting local tourism and investment opportunities in Kitwe and beyond.
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