Zambia Targets 100,000 Tonnes of ASM Copper
The Zambian government has set an ambitious target of producing 100,000 metric tonnes of copper from the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in 2026, signalling a major push to enhance the contribution of small-scale miners to the national economy.
ASM copper output has shown strong growth in recent years, rising from approximately 30,000 metric tonnes in 2023 to over 77,900 metric tonnes in 2025.
Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hapenga M. Kabeta, described the subsector as increasingly pivotal to Zambia’s mining landscape and economic transformation agenda.
He highlighted that ASM operations provide livelihoods for thousands of Zambians, particularly in rural areas, while contributing to poverty reduction and local economic development.
“While ASM plays a critical role, it is essential that mining activities are conducted safely, within a regulated and formalised framework, to ensure sustainability and improved productivity across the sector,” Dr. Kabeta said.
The Permanent Secretary made the remarks during a validation workshop for the updated ASM Training Manual and the Trainers of Trainers Manual, which aim to strengthen capacity within the sector.
Dr. Kabeta emphasised that practical, accessible training materials remain a key government intervention to improve skills, compliance, and overall mining practices among artisanal miners.
RESOLVE Technical Consultant Danny Musenge noted that the newly developed manuals simplify licensing procedures and enhance compliance, and will be translated into local languages to improve accessibility and knowledge sharing, particularly for miners in remote areas.
The ASM growth strategy forms part of the broader development agenda under President Hakainde Hichilema, which also targets increased gold production and greater participation of women and youth to drive inclusive and sustainable growth in Zambia’s mining sector.
