Faith Nyasuguta
Zambia is actively courting electric vehicle (EV) component manufacturers to establish production facilities near its rich copper mining regions. As Africa’s second-largest copper producer, Zambia is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the global EV supply chain. Copper is essential for EV engines, making Zambia’s abundant reserves increasingly attractive to automakers.
Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane emphasized this strategy during international engagements, including a recent trip to Germany. He encouraged companies to consider manufacturing EV components in Zambia, suggesting that these parts could be exported to South Africa for global distribution, thereby adding significant value to the supply chain.
The country’s copper output has seen notable growth. In 2024, production increased by 12%, reaching approximately 820,670 metric tons, up from 732,580 tons in 2023. This surge was driven by the recovery of key mines such as Barrick Gold’s Lumwana, Vedanta Resources’ Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), and Mopani Copper Mines, which was acquired by the United Arab Emirates firm International Resources Holding . In the first quarter of 2025, Zambia’s copper production rose by 30% year-on-year, totaling about 224,000 metric tons.
Zambia’s efforts to attract EV-related investments are already yielding results. In 2024, Chinese automaker BYD, the world’s largest EV manufacturer, expanded into Zambia through a partnership with Pilatus Electric Mobility Zambia Limited (PEM). This collaboration marks a significant step in integrating Zambia into the global EV supply chain.
The Zambian government is also fostering regional cooperation. In April 2022, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a joint battery value chain. This initiative aims to harmonize policies and attract investments for the production of EV batteries and components, leveraging the region’s rich deposits of copper, cobalt, and manganese.
To further support the EV sector, Zambia is investing in infrastructure. The government plans to deploy electric vehicle charging stations across the country, enhancing the feasibility of EV adoption.
Despite challenges such as a severe drought in 2024 that impacted electricity generation and agricultural productivity , Zambia remains committed to its vision of becoming a key hub in the EV supply chain. The government’s proactive approach, combined with its rich mineral resources, positions Zambia as an emerging leader in the global transition to electric mobility.
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