Lusaka, Zambia – Zambia’s $2 billion Lumwana copper expansion is gathering momentum as Barrick Mining Corporation advances construction at one of the country’s major mining operations. The investment aims to more than double annual copper production, strengthening Zambia’s position in the global minerals market.
Barrick confirmed on 9 November 2026 that it had invested approximately $795 million in the Lumwana Super Pit Expansion Project. Construction remains on schedule and within the planned budget, with the company targeting first copper from the expanded facilities in early 2028.
The project is expected to increase annual copper production from approximately 117,000 tonnes to 240,000 tonnes. This expansion could strengthen Zambia’s export earnings while supporting its ambition to become one of the world’s leading copper producers.
Located in North-Western Province, Lumwana plays an important role in Zambia’s mining industry. The expansion forms part of Barrick’s strategy to increase its copper portfolio as global demand continues to grow.
Construction has reached several important milestones. Major equipment, including mill shells, trunnions and a primary crusher, has already arrived at the site. Barrick has also secured the equipment needed for the next stages of development.
Work on the primary crusher is progressing, while construction teams are completing concrete structures for the new processing mill. Development of the expanded tailings storage facility is scheduled to begin before the end of 2026.
The Zambia Lumwana copper expansion will significantly increase the mine’s processing capacity. Annual ore throughput is expected to rise from approximately 27 million tonnes to 52 million tonnes.
Barrick expects the expanded operation to maintain production for around 30 years. Its development plan extends Lumwana’s operating horizon to 2057, providing a long-term foundation for investment and economic activity.
The company has maintained its full-year copper production guidance despite rising costs across the global mining industry. Group copper output for 2026 is projected at between 190,000 and 220,000 tonnes.
Barrick’s third-quarter financial results also demonstrated its capacity to fund major investments. Revenue reached $5.07 billion during the three months ending September 2026, representing a 22% increase from the corresponding period last year.
Operating cash flow reached $2.49 billion, strengthening the company’s financial position as it continues developing Lumwana and other mining assets.
Zambia stands to benefit from the expansion through increased copper production, employment and business opportunities. Mining remains central to the national economy, generating substantial export earnings and supporting government revenue.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has set a target of producing three million tonnes of copper annually by 2031. Achieving this ambition will require continued investment in mining infrastructure, electricity generation and new production capacity.
Lumwana could make an important contribution to that target. However, Zambia will also need additional investment across its mining industry to achieve the planned increase in national output.
Global copper demand has created renewed interest in major mining projects. The metal is essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, electricity networks and industrial manufacturing.
Expanding digital infrastructure is also increasing copper consumption. Data centres and modern electricity systems require substantial quantities of the metal, adding pressure to global supply chains.
These developments have strengthened Zambia’s importance in the international copper market. Alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo, the country forms part of one of the world’s most significant copper-producing regions.
Beyond mineral production, the Lumwana expansion could create opportunities for Zambian businesses. Large mining projects require construction services, engineering expertise, transport, electrical installations and equipment maintenance.
Local suppliers could benefit from these activities as construction advances. Barrick has previously outlined plans to establish an industrial supplier park near Lumwana to encourage greater participation by domestic businesses.
The company also projected approximately 2,500 construction jobs over three years. Around 550 additional positions were expected to support operations as the expanded mine increases production.
These employment estimates were outlined during earlier project planning. Actual employment levels will depend on construction progress and operational requirements.
Greater local participation could help communities in North-Western Province benefit from the investment. Opportunities may extend to accommodation providers, transport operators and businesses supplying goods and services to the mine.
However, the project also presents infrastructure and environmental challenges. Higher copper production will require reliable electricity, effective water management and appropriate waste-storage facilities.
Zambia has experienced electricity shortages linked to drought conditions and reduced hydropower generation. These challenges highlight the importance of strengthening energy infrastructure to support mining growth.
The government has prioritised investment in additional power generation as it seeks to reduce supply disruptions. Reliable electricity will remain essential to the success of large mining projects.
Across Africa, governments are increasingly seeking greater economic value from their natural resources. Countries want mining investments to support industrial development, local processing and employment rather than relying solely on raw material exports.
Zambia’s copper industry offers significant opportunities in this regard. Stronger domestic supply chains could help retain more economic value while improving the competitiveness of local businesses.
Barrick’s investment demonstrates the scale of capital required to expand modern mining operations. It also highlights Zambia’s ability to attract international investors seeking long-term access to copper resources.
The next major milestone will be the completion of key construction works and preparation for commissioning. First copper from the expanded facilities remains scheduled for the first quarter of 2028.
Once operational, the Lumwana copper expansion could strengthen Zambia’s position in global mineral supply chains. Its wider success will depend on sustained production, infrastructure development and the ability of local communities to benefit from increased mining activity.
The $2 billion investment represents an important opportunity for Zambia to translate its mineral wealth into broader economic growth.
