Zambia, US seal mining pact

Zambia, US seal mining pact

By Tony Nkhoma

The United States (US) government has hailed Zambia for taking a major step forward in advancing its mining sector.

This follows the signing of a grant agreement between the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and Lunda Resources, a joint venture between Zambia’s TerraMetals Inc. and Metalex Commodities of Texas, USA.

The grant will finance a feasibility study for the Kazozo Mine (formerly Kalaba Mine) and adjacent large-scale exploration licenses in North-western Province

Speaking at the signing ceremony at the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C, Senator Ted Cruz emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership, saying critical minerals were the foundation of the future economy.

Cruz said the United States cannot afford to fall behind China in Africa.

“By working with partners like Zambia, we are ensuring secure supply chains, stronger alliances, and shared prosperity,” he said.

USTDA Director Thomas Hardy and representatives of the Zambian Embassy in Washington, D.C were present during the signing ceremony.

Cruz said the milestone reflects the strong partnership between President Hakainde Hichilema and President Donald Trump, both of whom have emphasised the importance of “Trade, not Aid” in driving sustainable growth.

He said the project would create jobs, strengthen Zambia’s GDP, and contribute to the revival of US copper and cobalt refineries, securing markets for Zambia’s minerals while reinforcing the Lobito Corridor initiative.

And TerraMetals Inc chairman Mumena Mushinge said the signing of the grant was a victory for Zambia’s resilience and its people.

Mushinge said the Kazozo project was the fruit of years of endurance and partnership.

“I wish to pay special tribute to Senior Chief Sailunga and Chief Ntambu, who have stood with us on this journey. With USTDA’s support, Zambia is not just exporting minerals; we are exporting opportunity, growth, and hope,” Mushinge said.

Metalex Commodities chief executive officer Ayo Sopitan said the partnership is about unlocking Zambia’s potential for the benefit of its people while building stronger economic ties with the United States.

“Together, we are developing a world-class copper–cobalt project that will serve as a benchmark for US-Africa cooperation,” Sopitan said.