Zambia has officially reported cobalt production valued […]

Zambia has officially reported cobalt production valued at $4.1 million for the first quarter of 2026, underscoring the nation’s growing role in supplying critical minerals for modern technology. Cobalt, primarily used as a core cathode material in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, continues to gain strategic importance globally.

 Official statistics reviewed by the Zambian Business Times (ZBT) indicate that cobalt production increased by 9.15 percent in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. Output reached 74 metric tonnes, up from 68 metric tonnes a year earlier, reflecting Zambia’s continued efforts to expand its mining sector.

 With cobalt prices averaging around $56,290 per tonne in recent months, the nation’s total Q1 production was valued at $4.1 million. According to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, this growth was largely driven by higher output of cobalt alloys linked to increased copper production at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), as well as improved recovery rates of cobalt contained in copper anodes.

“The expansion in downstream processing and enhanced recovery of cobalt as a by-product of copper operations contributed materially to the overall surge in cobalt production,” a Ministry spokesperson noted.

The latest figures highlight Zambia’s progress in capitalizing on its mineral resources and strengthening its position as a key supplier of critical materials for the global technology and battery industries.

 According to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, this growth was primarily driven by higher output of cobalt-alloys associated with increased copper production at KCM, as well as greater recovery of cobalt contained in copper anodes.

“The expansion in downstream processing and enhanced recovery of cobalt as a by-product of copper operations contributed materially to the overall surge in cobalt production.”

Article by Tyndale Muchiya