Mining giant, BHP, shows interest in large-scale copper exploration in Zambia

Global mining giant BHP has reportedly expressed strong interest in undertaking large-scale copper exploration in Zambia, in a development that signals growing international confidence in the country’s mineral potential.

BHP’s Head of Global Generative Exploration, Campbell McCuaig, said the company was increasingly focused on locating large copper deposits that are difficult to detect using traditional exploration techniques.

Speaking during a high-level meeting in Lusaka on Monday, McCuaig explained that many promising deposits were buried deep underground or hidden beneath geological cover, making them harder to identify.

“To overcome these challenges, BHP is employing advanced geological techniques and large-scale data analysis to identify what are known as mineral systems—the combination of geological processes that lead to the formation of major copper deposits,” he said.

McCuaig also commended Zambia for improving access to geoscience data, citing government-backed airborne geophysical surveys and the ongoing digitization of geological information.

He said such initiatives were essential to attracting global investment into the mining sector.

Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta, said enhanced collaboration with BHP aligned with the government’s ambitions to boost copper production and attract major international investors.

Kabeta reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable investment within the mining sector.

“Stronger collaboration between government, global mining companies, and local exploration firms will be essential in unlocking new mineral districts and driving long-term growth,” Kabeta said.

He added that Zambia remained one of the world’s most prospective regions for copper, and that ongoing reforms were designed to ensure the country converted its mineral potential into tangible economic benefits.

“The government is prioritizing early-stage exploration, improved access to geological data, and increased participation of local companies in global mining initiatives,” he said.

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