Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema launched a nationwide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey in the capital Lusaka to map the country’s minerals on 14 August 2024
According to Zambia’s Ministry of Mines Secretary Hapenga Kabeta, the aerial survey will be conducted over 18 months by Xcalibur a Spanish company with offices in South Africa.
“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,” Hichilema said.
Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata highlighted how the aerial geophysical survey is crucial in determining the country’s full mineral potential by providing the government with detailed information on the mineral endowment in all the ten provinces.
Xcalibur Smart Mapping Chief Executive Officer, Andres Blanco Grasa thanked the government for entrusting the company with the responsibility of generating the mineral mapping data.
Sam Waldock the acting British High Commissioner to Zambia revealed that the UK is supporting the Zambian Geological Survey in a post on X.
And they’re off! Very excited to attend the flag-off ceremony for Zambia’s new geophysical survey. 9 aircraft will fly the equivalent of 80x round the world to map every corner of Zambia. All the data will belong to the people of Zambia.
Under the @UKinZambia Critical Mineral MOU with GRZ the @BritGeoSurvey is supporting the Zambian Geological Survey to better manage data and information – helping address barriers to investment in the mining sector.
