Across Africa, mineral-rich countries are intensifying national geological surveys to better understand their mineral resources. These initiatives aim to attract new investment in exploration and production and strengthen the continent’s role in the global supply of transition metals and Fourth Industrial Revolution metals.
In June, Zambia’s Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development reported that high-resolution airborne geophysical surveys have covered 22% of the country’s land area, with plans to reach 70% by December 2025. The program is on track for completion by mid-2026 and is part of Zambia’s strategy to de-risk mining investments and increase annual copper production to 3 million tonnes by 2031. 2025 – To be held in Cape Town from 1 to 3 October – A panel discussion on Zambia: Accelerating exploration and development through license allocation will focus on the country’s continued efforts to expand its mineral resource base and streamline development.
AMW serves as the premier platform for exploring all mining opportunities across Africa. The event will be held in parallel with the Africa Energy Week: Investing in Africa Energy 2025 conference, which will be held in Cape Town from 1 to 3 October. Sponsors, exhibitors and attendees can contact sales@energycapitalpower.com for more information.
Zambia’s efforts are part of a broader continental movement to use advanced technology to speed up geographic mapping. Tanzania, for example, is pursuing a national mapping program that focuses on important minerals. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Minerals and the National Mining Corporation, aims to achieve 50% territorial coverage by 2030. In March, Tanzania partnered with the Korea Institute of Geology and Mineral Resources to strengthen its technological capabilities through knowledge and technology exchange. The program forms a central element of Tanzania’s Vision 2030 strategy, which identifies mining as a key driver of GDP growth.
In Liberia, Minister of Mines and Energy Wilmot J.M. Pay confirmed in February 2025 that a national survey in the country had identified significant deposits of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, copper and nickel. Meanwhile, ongoing mapping efforts in South Sudan have revealed geological similarities with the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, the continent’s leading copper producer and the world’s largest supplier of cobalt. In Eswatini, preliminary results from the 2024 exploration show promising deposits of lithium tantalum and soft earth minerals.
As these programs gain momentum, AMW 2025 provides a timely platform for governments to present findings, share progress, and forge new partnerships with global investors and technology providers. Held in parallel with Africa Energy Week: Investing in Africa Energy 2025, the event will bring together all mining stakeholders to shape the future of Africa’s mineral economy.
