President Launches Nationwide Aerial Geophysical Survey
President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the launch of the nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey on Wednesday. The survey will utilize cutting-edge airborne geophysical technology to reveal hidden geological treasures.
“This initiative will pave the way for targeted exploration of both mineral and water resources, significantly reducing exploration costs and promoting investment,” the President explained.
“The project underscores our commitment to unlocking the untapped potential of the country's mineral resources as we work towards achieving our goal of 3 million tonnes of copper production by 2031,” he continued.
The move is part of efforts by the New Dawn government to revive the mining sector and establish Zambia as a hub, both for copper production, as well as other critical minerals such as cobalt which are necessary for the global transition to green energy.
According to the President, “This mapping exercise also enhances our ability to realize the true market value of our mineral wealth and positions us to engage in transactions with greater certainty.”
He called on the people of Zambia to support this initiative, which he said will ultimately create jobs and drive economic growth.
Meanwhile, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe also addressed the launch which took place at ZAF city airport in Lusaka. Addressing the event he stated, “With the state-of-the-art airborne geophysical technology, which Xcalibar will employ, this country is poised to uncover mineral deposits across Zambia and thereby become a preferred mining destination.”