Zambia’s state-owned mining investment company, ZCCM-IH, and Abu Dhabi-based IRH have resolved a financing dispute threatening the development of Mopani Copper Mines, a key pillar of Zambia’s economic growth plan. In September, ZCCM-IH accused the Emirati company of failing to supply equity funding and taking on debt without approval. However, a new statement does not mention the allegations and, instead, highlights joint exploration projects and a shared commitment to the mine’s long-term development. Both parties have strong incentives to preserve the partnership. Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper producer, needs Gulf investment to achieve its goal of increasing annual copper production to 3 million tons, more than three times its current output. Meanwhile, IRH wants to raise Mopani’s production from 66,369 tons in 2025 to 300,000 tons by 2029.