Zambia is embarking on a $6 million investment initiative aimed at leveraging technology to enhance mineral production while prioritizing sustainability, productivity, and safety in mining operations.

The cornerstone of this endeavor is the establishment of the Mining Technology (MinTech) hub, currently in the planning stages. This hub is envisioned to serve as a focal point for innovation and collaboration within the mining sector. Additionally, it will offer training and capacity-building programs to promote the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and best practices.

Felix Mutati, the Minister of Science and Technology, emphasized that the development of the MinTech cluster aligns with the government’s strategic objective of fostering value addition, particularly in Zambia’s significant copper mining sector. Speaking at the recently concluded Timbuktoo Retreat Strategy in Cape Town, South Africa, Mutati underscored the country’s ambition to capitalize on its mineral resources by adding value to its mining output.

According to Mutati, the government’s vision includes utilizing value addition to support industries such as the production of electronic car batteries, which necessitate advanced technology and research. He further highlighted that the MinTech hub would play a pivotal role in generating mining sector solutions that enhance productivity and maximize Zambia’s mineral resource potential.

Support for the establishment of the MinTech hub will come from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which will provide funding for the initiative. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP Africa Director, emphasized the organization’s commitment to collaborating with partners to facilitate investment in the construction and equipping of the hub. Eziakonwa expressed optimism about the involvement of the private sector, particularly mining industry stakeholders, noting the significant benefits that such collaboration would yield for all parties involved.