NEW MINETECH HUB TO DRIVE JOBS IN ZAMBIA

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Posted by admin on December 18, 2025 at 6:46 AM

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Zambia has taken a significant step toward technology‑driven economic transformation with the launch of the Timbuktoo MineTech Hub, a collaborative initiative involving the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR), First Quantum Minerals (FQM) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Launched in Lusaka on Friday, the MineTech Hub aims to position Zambia as a regional centre for innovation, sustainable mining and industrialisation. It forms part of UNDP’s Timbuktoo programme, which supports African‑led, youth‑driven innovation across the continent.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Chipota Mutati said hosting the MineTech Hub in Zambia demonstrates renewed confidence in the country’s mining sector and broader innovation ecosystem.

He noted that fiscal, regulatory and institutional reforms have helped restore investor trust, resulting in over US$7 billion in mining investments in the past four years — the highest in Zambia’s history.

Mutati added that strengthened local content policies have increased citizen participation in mining, while Zambia’s successful debt restructuring under the G20 framework has repositioned the country as a competitive investment destination.

He said the MineTech Hub will support Zambia’s ambition to reach three million tonnes of annual copper production, by anchoring innovation in real mining challenges and leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation and 5G connectivity.

Permanent Secretary Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu said modern mining is becoming increasingly complex due to declining ore grades, making precision, efficiency and innovation indispensable.

He stressed that emerging technologies are no longer optional if Zambia is to meet its production and development targets.

UNDP Resident Representative Dr. James Wakiaga described the launch and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding as a strong example of effective public–private collaboration for sustainable development.

He said the Hub will help transform innovative ideas into scalable enterprises within the mining ecosystem, while empowering young people to drive long‑term value creation.

FQM Country Representative Anthony Mukutuma highlighted the company’s growth in Zambia, noting that copper production has risen from 10,000 tonnes in 1996 to nearly 800,000 tonnes today.

He said achieving Zambia’s three‑million‑tonne target will require advanced technology, automation and innovation — particularly to enhance safety and productivity.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the event to promote technological and scientific innovation and sustainable mining practices in Zambia, marking a defining moment in the country’s mining and innovation journey.