ZAMBIA’S NATIONAL GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY REACHES 93.6 PERCENT COMPLETION
ZAMBIA’S NATIONAL GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY REACHES 93.6 PERCENT COMPLETION:
ZAMBIA’S nationwide high-resolution geophysical survey has reached 93.6 per cent completion, with the Government saying the exercise will provide investors with improved geological information and help unlock new opportunities in mineral exploration.
Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Acting Permanent Secretary Anthony Chilengi said the survey is expected to be completed by December and will provide a more detailed understanding of the mineral resources beneath Zambia’s surface.
Mr Chilengi said the availability of updated geological data would enable investors to identify areas with mineral potential and make more informed decisions on exploration and mine development.
He was speaking yesterday at the Africa Critical Minerals Conference 2026.
Mr Chilengi said Zambia had remained largely unmapped for several decades, with the last major geological mapping exercise conducted in 1972.
He said the ongoing survey was therefore an important step towards modernising Zambia’s geological database and creating a stronger foundation for investment in the mining sector.
“The availability of improved geological data will enable investors to identify and develop mineral resources,” Mr Chilengi said.
He said the Government was also implementing reforms aimed at establishing a more predictable, transparent and efficient legal and institutional framework for the mining industry.
Among the reforms is the establishment of the Minerals Regulation Commission, which Mr Chilengi said would separate regulatory responsibilities from policy functions and provide greater certainty for investors operating in the sector.
Government has also established the Mining Appeals Tribunal to facilitate the quicker resolution of disputes within the mining industry, reducing the need for prolonged court proceedings.
Meanwhile, Chinese Embassy Counsellor Jin Jun said Zambia’s mineral wealth, combined with the global transition towards cleaner energy, presented opportunities for deeper cooperation between Zambia and China in the mining sector.
Mr Jin said the rapid development of industries such as electric vehicles, semiconductors and artificial intelligence was contributing to growing global demand for critical minerals.
He said Zambia could leverage its mineral resources to generate broader economic and development benefits as demand for critical minerals continues to increase.
Mr Jin further said Chinese companies would continue supporting Zambia’s efforts to develop a mining sector that is green, smart and sustainable.
The developments come as Zambia seeks to attract increased investment into its mining sector and strengthen its position in the global critical minerals supply chain.
The completion of the geophysical survey is expected to provide Government and investors with more comprehensive geological information, potentially improving exploration efficiency and supporting the identification of new mineral opportunities across the country.