Mining industry in Zambia emphasizing critical minerals for global supply chains.
Zambia’s president, Hakainde Hichilema, says African nations should resist pressure to choose sides in the growing global competition for critical minerals. Instead of aligning with powers such as the United States or China, Hichilema argues that resource-rich countries should focus on partnerships that deliver mutual economic benefits. Under Hichilema, Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper exporter, is using policy reforms and tax adjustments to revive its mining sector. His strategy has worked so far, with over $12 billion flooding into the sector since he took office. The government aims to boost copper output from about 890,000 metric tons in 2025 to 3 million metric tons annually by 2031. With global demand for energy-transition minerals surging, Hichilema believes African governments now hold stronger negotiating power and should leverage it to drive growth, jobs, and economic stability across the continent.
Financial Times