President Hakainde Hichilema says his participation in the 2026 Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, is part of Government’s ongoing efforts to attract more investment and create employment opportunities for Zambians.

The President has arrived in Cape Town, where he is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at Africa’s largest mining investment conference.

In a message shared on his Facebook page, Mr Hichilema said Government’s mission is clear—to secure increased investment that will generate jobs and drive economic growth. He also thanked citizens for their prayers and continued support.

State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka said the President’s objective at the Indaba is to position Zambia as a preferred destination for responsible mining investment. He noted that the conference brings together key global investors and industry executives who make critical investment decisions.

Mr Hamasaka said increased mining investment creates employment not only within the mines but also in supporting sectors such as transport, supply chains, and local businesses, while boosting government revenues for essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

He added that since 2021, Government has implemented reforms aimed at strengthening Zambia’s investment climate. As a result, copper production reached 890,346 metric tonnes in 2025—an eight percent increase from the previous year and the highest output in recent years.

Mr Hamasaka highlighted major developments, including First Quantum Minerals’ US$1.25 billion S3 expansion at Kansanshi Mine, which has extended the mine’s lifespan by 20 years and safeguarded thousands of jobs. He also noted that mines previously facing closure and job losses, such as Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines, are now operational, investing, and employing workers.

He further stated that mining sector growth is driving infrastructure development, including the Western Corridor Project, a 371-kilometre road upgrade from Mutanda in North-Western Province to Kaoma in Western Province under a 25-year public-private partnership.

Government has set a target of reaching three million tonnes of annual copper production, a goal Mr Hamasaka said will create more jobs, increase tax revenue, and expand opportunities for local suppliers and entrepreneurs across the mining value chain.

Our lives have not changed an inch as Zambians ever since you assumed office. What is the difference of this trip to the many others before this one. Just a reminder in case of selective amnesia, PF left mealie meal at K120. Indisputable fact.

And on return at the airport.

Reporter: How was the trip Sir? Response: Successful

?Successful? answer since 2021 but nothing changing on the ground. People?s livelyhoods even worse than under previous regime. Numbers dont lie

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