Zambia is directing $6 million toward advancing technology to enhance mineral production and improve sustainability, efficiency, and safety in its mining sector. This investment will give rise to the Mining Technology (MinTech) hub, envisioned as a central hub for innovation and collaboration within the industry.
The hub will offer educational programs and capacity-building initiatives to facilitate the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Felix Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, stated that establishing a MinTech cluster aligns with the government’s aim of promoting value addition in mining.
Speaking at the Timbuktoo Retreat Strategy in Cape Town, South Africa, Mutati emphasized Zambia’s significant mineral production, particularly copper. He underscored the government’s commitment to adding value to the country’s mining output.
The minister outlined the government’s aspiration to use this value addition for producing electronic car batteries, which necessitates technological innovation and research.
Mutati explained, “The MinTech hub will generate mining sector solutions that enhance productivity and enable Zambia to fully leverage its abundant mineral resources.”
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will finance the establishment of the hub. Ahunna Eziakonwa, the UNDP Africa Director, affirmed the organization’s dedication to collaborating with partners to support investment in constructing and equipping the hub.
She expressed optimism that the private sector, particularly mining companies, would recognize the significant benefits and participate in the initiative.
“We will contribute substantial technical expertise and procure some equipment, with the expectation that the private sector, especially mining firms, will join us, as this initiative holds great promise for them,” she stated.
