Zambia’s Mopani Copper Mines rebounds with UAE-backed investment, boosting production, jobs, and expansion in global energy transition

In a remarkable turnaround story for one of Africa’s most strategically vital copper assets, Zambia’s Mopani Copper Mines is experiencing a robust revival, spearheaded by a transformative investment from the UAE’s International Resources Holding (IRH). Just one year after IRH became the majority shareholder, Mopani has witnessed a significant surge in production, substantial job creation, and the initiation of ambitious long-term expansion plans, positioning it as a key player in the global energy transition.

The resurgence of Mopani is more than just an operational success; it represents a powerful testament to the potential of strategic international partnerships in unlocking the vast mineral wealth of African nations, driving economic growth, and fostering sustainable development. This pivotal investment aligns with Zambia’s broader vision to leverage its rich natural resources for national prosperity, while simultaneously contributing to the world’s increasing demand for critical minerals essential for a low-carbon future.

A Year of Unprecedented Growth: Mopani’s Operational Renaissance

Mopani Copper Mines, with a history stretching back to the 1930s, has long been a cornerstone of Zambia’s Copperbelt Province. Its operations, spanning the Kitwe and Mufulira districts, encompass the full spectrum of copper production, from underground ore extraction to concentration, smelting, refining, and packaging of finished cathodes for export. After a period of decline and uncertainty under previous ownership, IRH’s timely intervention has injected much-needed capital and expertise, catalyzing a rapid and impressive operational renaissance.

The latest operational update, shared with suppliers and community leaders in Kitwe, paints a vivid picture of this revival. Mopani reported a substantial 14% increase in ore production, reaching 2.59 million tonnes. This surge in raw material extraction is complemented by an 18% rise in copper grades, indicating a higher concentration of copper within the extracted ore, which directly translates to more efficient processing and higher yields. Consequently, the mine achieved a remarkable 23% boost in contained copper output, totaling 47.2 thousand tonnes. These figures are critical indicators of improved efficiency, optimized mining techniques, and a renewed focus on maximizing the value from Mopani’s extensive reserves.

The financial underpinning of these gains is equally impressive. Since 2023, IRH has injected over $1.1 billion in investment into Mopani, a commitment that includes both $620 million in equity capital and $400 million in long-term funding. This substantial financial backing has not only stabilized the mine’s operations but also provided the necessary impetus for modernization and expansion. This level of investment signals a deep, long-term commitment from IRH, moving beyond short-term gains to foster enduring growth and sustainability.

Looking ahead, Mopani has set an ambitious target: to achieve an annual copper output of 300,000 tonnes per year by 2029. To put this into perspective, Mopani’s production has fluctuated significantly over the past decades. For instance, under previous ownership, the mine faced periods of reduced output due to various challenges. This new target, therefore, represents a substantial leap, aiming to restore Mopani to its historical prominence as a major global copper producer. Achieving this will require sustained investment, technological advancements, and a stable operational environment.

Further solidifying the long-term outlook, a new airborne geophysical survey is currently underway. This advanced exploration technique uses specialized equipment mounted on aircraft to map geological structures and identify potential mineral deposits hidden beneath the surface. The goal is to pinpoint additional reserves that could extend the life of the mine by more than 30 years. Such surveys are crucial for ensuring the longevity of mining operations, providing a clear pipeline of future resources, and attracting continued investment. This proactive approach to exploration underscores IRH’s commitment to Mopani’s enduring future and its role in Zambia’s economy.

Zambia’s Economic Horizon: Copper as a Catalyst for Growth

The positive impact of Mopani’s revival extends far beyond the mine gates, resonating throughout Zambia’s national economy. A World Bank Report published on July 9 identified the rejuvenation of Mopani as a significant contributing factor to Zambia’s 4% GDP growth in 2024. This growth is particularly noteworthy given the challenges Zambia has faced, including a severe drought and electricity shortages mentioned in the World Bank’s “ZAMBIA MPO” report, which also highlighted mining recovery and acceleration in services as key drivers.

Zambia, a nation rich in natural resources, has historically relied heavily on its mining sector. Copper, in particular, has been the backbone of the country’s economy, accounting for a significant portion of its export earnings and contributing substantially to national GDP. According to the Center for Development Economics and Policy (CDEP), copper alone generates 80% of Zambia’s export earnings and accounts for about 14% of the national GDP. Therefore, the robust performance of a major player like Mopani has a direct and tangible effect on the country’s economic health, boosting government revenues, stabilizing the exchange rate, and fostering investor confidence.

The World Bank’s “Zambia Economic Update” further emphasizes the optimistic outlook for the country, projecting real GDP to increase by 5.8% in 2025, with an average growth rate of 6.5% projected for 2026-27. This positive trajectory is attributed not only to the robust momentum in the mining sector but also to a rebound in agriculture and improvements in tourism. The report also notes that investments in mining have reached US1.0 billion, aiming to boost copper production to the government’s ambitious 3 million metric tons annual target. The shift towards low-carbon energy and an updated mining fiscal regime are also contributing to this positive mining outlook.

The revival of Mopani serves as a powerful case study in how targeted foreign direct investment can act as a catalyst for broader economic recovery and diversification. It demonstrates that with the right partnerships and strategic injections of capital and expertise, even long-standing, complex assets can be revitalized to contribute meaningfully to national development goals.

IRH’s Global Vision: Powering the Green Energy Transition

Ali AlRashdi, Chief Executive Officer of International Resources Holding, articulated the profound significance of the Mopani investment, stating, “This is a proud moment for IRH and for the UAE. Our partnership with Mopani is a model for long-term, responsible investment. We are creating jobs, building capacity, and supporting Zambia’s position in the global energy transition. Global copper demand is forecast to reach 4.5 million tonnes by 2030 as the green energy transition accelerates, and our investment in Mopani means the mine can be at the forefront of enabling this change. This is the kind of impact we strive for as part of our international growth strategy.”

AlRashdi’s statement underscores IRH’s strategic alignment with global mega-trends, particularly the accelerating global energy transition. Copper is a fundamental component of this transition. Its exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity makes it indispensable for a vast array of green technologies and infrastructure:

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): EVs require significantly more copper than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles – often four times as much. Copper is used extensively in EV motors, batteries, inverters, and the charging infrastructure.
• Renewable Energy Generation: Wind turbines and solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are copper-intensive. Copper is essential for the wiring, generators, and inverters that convert renewable energy into usable electricity.
• Grid Infrastructure: Modernizing and expanding electricity grids to accommodate renewable energy sources and manage increased demand requires vast amounts of copper for transmission lines, transformers, and distribution networks. The development of “smart grids” also heavily relies on copper’s reliability.
• Energy Storage Systems: Batteries and other energy storage solutions, crucial for balancing the intermittency of renewables, also utilize copper.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects a significant increase in copper demand driven by these clean energy technologies, with demand for renewable energy and autos alone projected to rise to nearly 16% of all copper demand by 2030, up from about 6% currently. This makes copper a “critical mineral” for the future, and IRH’s investment in Mopani positions it strategically to meet this burgeoning global need.

The Mopani investment is not an isolated venture but forms part of IRH’s broader strategy to develop long-term resource partnerships across Africa. As detailed on the IRH official website, the company describes itself as a “mine-to-market natural resources leader” with a diverse portfolio of metals and minerals, operating across the entire mining value chain. Their investment philosophy is centered on “patient capital committed to creating a responsible mine to market value chain in a manner that creates real value and facilitates sustainable socio-economic upliftment for every stakeholder.” This includes a focus on minerals that will drive the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future, such as copper, cobalt, nickel, and lithium.

This initiative also aligns with the UAE’s growing investment footprint on the African continent. The UAE has rapidly emerged as a leading investor in Africa, with commitments surpassing $110 billion between 2019 and 2023, outpacing traditional partners. These investments cut across critical sectors including energy, mining, logistics, agriculture, and infrastructure, reflecting the UAE’s ambition to diversify its economy and secure vital resources. The acquisition of a majority stake in Mopani Copper Mines by IRH, a subsidiary of the UAE’s International Holding Company (IHC), exemplifies this strategic push. This reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to responsible international growth, emphasizing sustainability, localization, and industrial development in its African ventures.

Operational Excellence and Community Empowerment: The Mopani Model

Charles Sakanya, CEO of Mopani Copper Mines, described the rapid turnaround as compelling evidence of a shared commitment to performance and partnership. “The progress we have made over the past year is the result of clear vision and close collaboration. With IRH’s support, we’ve modernised our operations, digitised our mines, and built momentum. The next phase will be even more exciting — for Mopani, for our people, and for Zambia.”

Indeed, the transformation at Mopani extends beyond mere production figures to encompass significant advancements in operational technology and a profound positive impact on local communities.

Modernization and Digitalization: A Leap into Industry 4.0

Mopani’s digitisation programme has propelled it to become one of the most technologically advanced mines in the region. This involves the implementation of cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness:

• Real-time Monitoring Systems: Sensors and IoT (Internet of Things) devices embedded throughout the mine collect vast amounts of data on machine health, temperature, vibration, and mineral quality. This real-time data allows for immediate insights into operational performance and potential issues.
• AI-Supported Grade Control: Artificial intelligence algorithms analyze geological surveys and drilling logs to identify high-value mineral zones more quickly and accurately. This optimizes extraction yields and ensures that resources are utilized efficiently.
• Predictive Maintenance Infrastructure: AI-powered analytics process data from sensors and historical maintenance reports to forecast equipment failures and schedule proactive maintenance. This drastically reduces unplanned downtime, extends the lifespan of machinery, and lowers operational costs.
• Underground Connectivity: The establishment of Wi-Fi infrastructure reaching 2km underground is a significant technological feat. This connectivity is crucial for real-time data transmission, remote monitoring, communication among workers, and the deployment of autonomous systems, further enhancing safety and operational efficiency in a challenging environment.

These digital advancements are not just about technology; they are about creating a smarter, safer, and more productive mining operation. The adoption of such technologies aligns with global trends in the mining industry, where digitalization is seen as key to increasing productivity, reducing costs, improving occupational safety, and enhancing the reliability of information.

Job Creation and Local Economic Empowerment

The human impact of Mopani’s revival is equally profound. The mine now employs over 13,000 people, having created more than 2,300 new roles since 2024. This significant increase in employment opportunities provides direct livelihoods for thousands of Zambian families and has a substantial multiplier effect on the local economy, supporting ancillary businesses and services. In a country where unemployment remains a challenge, particularly among youth, these jobs are invaluable.

Beyond direct employment, Mopani’s vendor strategy has actively prioritised local value. A remarkable 90% of procurement spend in 2025 so far has been awarded to Zambian businesses, amounting to a substantial $436 million. This commitment to local procurement ensures that the economic benefits of mining are widely distributed within Zambia, fostering the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), building local capacity, and creating a more resilient and diversified supply chain. This approach stands in stark contrast to historical models where a large portion of mining revenues would flow out of the country.

Community Development and Social Responsibility

Mopani’s commitment extends to robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes, focusing on the well-being of its host communities in Kitwe and Mufulira. A significant $14.8 million investment in hospital upgrades is underway, enhancing healthcare services for both mine employees and the wider community. This is part of broader health and education initiatives, which, according to Mopani’s CSR page, include running primary, secondary, and tertiary schools, providing a full range of healthcare services, sponsoring sports development, and undertaking environmental sustainability activities.

These initiatives reflect a holistic approach to responsible mining, recognizing that a successful mine must contribute positively to the social fabric of the regions in which it operates. By investing in social infrastructure, education, and health, Mopani is building community resilience and ensuring that the benefits of its operations are shared equitably.

Challenges and the Path Forward

While the narrative of Mopani’s revival is overwhelmingly positive, the path forward for Zambia’s mining sector and its economic development is not without challenges. Global copper prices can be volatile, impacting revenue streams. Environmental sustainability, particularly in a region with a long history of mining, remains a critical focus, requiring continuous investment in responsible practices. Labor relations and ensuring fair working conditions are also paramount for long-term stability. Furthermore, Zambia’s broader economic stability, including its ongoing debt restructuring efforts, will continue to influence the investment climate.

Despite these potential hurdles, the “Made for Germany” initiative, spearheaded by IRH, presents a compelling blueprint for how strategic, responsible investment can transform a critical asset and contribute to national economic resurgence. It underscores the growing importance of African minerals in the global energy transition and highlights the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships that prioritize both financial returns and sustainable development.

Conclusion: A New Dawn for Mopani and Zambia

The story of Mopani Copper Mines’ revival is a powerful narrative of partnership, innovation, and renewed hope. The substantial investment by International Resources Holding, coupled with a clear vision for operational excellence and a deep commitment to community development, has not only breathed new life into a strategically important asset but has also become a significant catalyst for Zambia’s economic growth.

As the world accelerates its transition to green energy, the demand for copper will only continue to soar. Mopani, under its new stewardship, is now firmly positioned to play a leading role in meeting this demand, contributing vital resources to global industries while simultaneously driving prosperity and opportunity within Zambia. This initiative serves as an inspiring model for responsible resource development in Africa, demonstrating that economic success and sustainable impact can, and should, go hand in hand. The eyes of the global mining industry and the clean energy sector will undoubtedly remain fixed on Mopani as it embarks on this exciting new chapter, promising a brighter, more electrified future for all.

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photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

22nd July, 2025