Transparency International Zambia’s report examines the governance and corruption risks associated with increased Chinese investment in Zambia’s copper mining sub-sector, in the context of the country’s goal to produce 3 million metric tonnes of copper by 2031.
The study draws on document reviews, stakeholder consultations, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. It uses the Mining Awards Corruption Risk Assessment (MACRA) Tool and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) Standard to assess institutional, environmental and socio-political risks.
Key governance risks
The report identifies four priority areas: corruption and the fronting of citizens in land acquisition; political interference and regulatory capture; threats and bribery during inspections and monitoring; and information suppression and influence over media narratives.
Recommendations
The report calls for stronger policy, legal and regulatory frameworks for responsible mining; improved enforcement capacity and corruption prevention; declarations of interest and greater procurement transparency; and protection of media freedom and timely disclosure of information during mining pollution incidents.
The study was conducted from March to June 2026 and did not capture the impact of subsequent mining sector legal and institutional reforms.
