The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially launched the Timbuktoo MineTech Hub in Zambia, an ambitious US$1 billion initiative aimed at transforming Africa’s mining industry through technology and innovation. This hub, located at the National Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR) in Chongwe, is part of the UNDP’s Timbuktoo initiative, which has established 10 hubs across Africa to foster growth in key sectors such as fintech, agritech, healthtech, and now, mining.
Scheduled to begin operations in 2025, the MineTech Hub is expected to attract top innovators from across Africa to advance sustainable mining practices and tech-driven solutions. Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati, who officiated the launch, described the hub as a “game changer” for Africa’s resource-rich mining sector. He emphasized the importance of leveraging innovation to boost safety, efficiency, and sustainability in mining operations.
“The MineTech Hub is a transformative initiative that will revolutionize mining in Africa,” Mutati said. “This hub will drive cutting-edge innovations, enhance safety standards, and promote sustainable practices, ensuring Africa’s mineral wealth benefits its people.”
Despite holding over 30% of the world’s mineral resources, Africa’s mining sector receives less than 1% of global investment. The Timbuktoo MineTech Hub seeks to address this disparity by using advanced technology to modernize mining processes, reduce environmental impact, and spur economic growth. The hub is expected to play a pivotal role in job creation, youth empowerment, and economic diversification in Zambia and across Africa.
UN Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali hailed the MineTech Hub as a catalyst for transformation, noting that it will equip African startups with the tools needed to optimize mining operations and drive sustainability.
“Zambia’s selection to host this hub is a testament to the country’s leadership in mining and innovation,” said Mutali. “This is not just a workspace; it’s a platform for young Africans to shape the future of mining.”
The Timbuktoo initiative, which aims to create 10,000 startups and impact 100 million lives across Africa over the next decade, will help address Zambia’s high youth unemployment and low investment in research and technology.
The hub is expected to significantly boost Zambia’s mining sector, particularly its goal of producing three million tonnes of copper annually. With Zambia already exporting 850,000 tonnes of copper each year, the Timbuktoo MineTech Hub will further position the country as a leader in tech-enabled mining.
In addition to the economic benefits, the hub aims to promote sustainable mining practices, reducing the environmental impact of resource extraction and ensuring long-term industry viability.
As part of the initiative, Bongohive, Zambia’s leading technology and innovation hub, announced funding for five innovators, each receiving US$25,000 to develop prototypes aligned with the MineTech Hub’s vision.
Natalie Jabangwe, Executive Secretary of the Timbuktoo initiative, expressed optimism about the hub’s potential to drive sustainable change in Africa’s mining sector.
“This is not just about mining; it’s about shaping the future of the industry through innovation and sustainability,” Jabangwe said. “The Timbuktoo MineTech Hub will stand the test of time as a beacon of hope for Africa’s future.”
The launch event saw participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners. All parties emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure the hub’s success and to drive long-term economic transformation in Zambia and across Africa.
As construction begins on the MineTech Hub, Zambia is at the forefront of bridging the gap between traditional industries and modern technological advancements. The project represents a bold step forward in positioning Africa as a leader in sustainable mining and a major player in the global economy.
