Zambia’s ambitious plan to triple copper production by 2031 has emerged as a central pillar of the nation’s economic strategy. The roadmap, developed jointly by the World Bank Group and the Zambian government, sets out how the country can leverage its vast copper resources to drive growth and transform the economy.
Copper has long been the backbone of Zambia’s economy, contributing roughly 15% of GDP and over 70% of export earnings. Yet, despite this historic role, national output has stagnated at around 800,000 metric tons per year since 1969. The new production drive signals a decisive pivot, with major mining companies already investing heavily to achieve the country’s ambitious targets.
While the vision excites industry leaders and policymakers alike, Zambia faces a serious challenge: ensuring there is a skilled workforce capable of supporting this unprecedented expansion.
If production targets are met, direct employment in mining could increase from approximately 56,000 to 200,000 jobs, with an additional 300,000 positions expected indirectly across the economy. These roles range from skilled technicians and artisans, such as equipment mechanics, welders, electricians, and haul-truck drivers, to professionals including mine managers, survey engineers, and metallurgists. Elementary positions, including laborers, security staff, and general support workers, will also see significant growth.
The problem is that Zambia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system is not yet equipped to supply enough qualified technicians and artisans. Only a small fraction of graduates currently meet industry standards, while limited funding, few training institutions, and weak partnerships with the private sector hinder the development of a capable workforce. Without urgent action, job growth could be constrained by this shortage of skilled workers, threatening the country’s copper expansion plans.
To address the gap, experts recommend several measures, including stronger collaboration between mining companies and training institutions, government support for industry-led training centres, the establishment of specialised centres of excellence, and expanded student financing for technical courses. At the university level, institutions such as Copperbelt University and the University of Zambia continue to graduate hundreds of mining engineers each year, but industry feedback highlights the need to update curricula and facilities to align with modern mining technologies and global best practices.
Beyond raw copper extraction, Zambia has untapped potential in downstream value addition, transforming raw metal into products like wiring, batteries, and photovoltaic panels. Globally, such processing generates far more jobs than mining alone, but Zambia’s operations remain limited, capital-intensive, and unable to compete with established producers such as China. Expanding this sector will require greater investment in research, innovation, and workforce development.
The mining sector also faces challenges in attracting youth and women. Changing perceptions of mining, improving workplace safety, and creating clear career pathways into technical and leadership roles will be vital for building a diverse, future-ready workforce.
Zambia now stands at a pivotal moment. The roadmap to triple copper production presents enormous opportunities for economic growth and employment, but without a concerted effort to strengthen skills development and industry partnerships, the country risks missing its chance to become a global copper leader. The government is working closely with industry and international partners to ensure that education, training, and mining expansion are aligned, aiming to make the copper boom a foundation for sustainable growth across Zambia.
