MineTech Hub to Deliver Jobs, Skills and Innovation
Zambia has taken a major step towards technology-driven economic transformation with the official 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).
The MineTech Hub, launched in Lusaka on Friday, represents a strategic partnership aimed at positioning Zambia as a regional centre for innovation, sustainable mining and industrialisation. The initiative is supported under UNDP’s Timbuktoo programme, which focuses on unlocking the potential of African-led and youth-driven innovation.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Technology and Science Felix Chipota Mutati said hosting the MineTech Hub in Zambia reflects growing confidence in the country’s mining sector and broader innovation ecosystem.
He noted that recent fiscal, regulatory and institutional reforms have restored investor confidence, resulting in more than US$7 billion in mining investments over the past four years, the highest in Zambia’s history.
Mr Mutati added that local content policies have ensured greater citizen participation in the mining sector, while Zambia’s successful debt restructuring under the G20 framework has repositioned the country as an investment destination.
He said the MineTech Hub will play a critical role in supporting Zambia’s ambition to reach a national copper production target of three million tonnes per year by anchoring innovation in real mining challenges and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation and 5G connectivity.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng Dr Brilliant Habeenzu, said modern mining is becoming increasingly complex due to declining ore grades, making precision, efficiency and innovation essential.
He stressed that emerging technologies are no longer optional if Zambia is to achieve its production and development targets.
UNDP Resident Representative Dr James Wakiaga described the launch of the Hub 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.
First Quantum Minerals Country Representative Anthony Mukutuma highlighted the company’s growth in Zambia, noting that copper production has increased 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 improve safety and productivity.
A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation to promote technological and scientific innovation and sustainable mining practices in Zambia was signed during the meeting, marking a defining moment in the country’s mining and innovation journey.
