The copper price is booming. Experts are divided over whether this boom is structural rather than cyclical. It is our considered view, in light of the current evidence, that copper prices will continue to climb due to medium to long-term supply deficits and the comparative inefficiency of copper’s potential substitutes. Very few high-grade copper deposits remain. Once they are exploited, lower-grade jurisdictions such as Zambia will become increasingly attractive. Investment opportunities into Zambia are therefore ripe for bold investors. However, the country presents a challenging operating environment. Only if investors are deeply committed to high impact Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance, will sustained, long-run yields flow. The corollary is that investors should commit to building state institutions that serve the interests of Zambia’s citizens, and crowd out irresponsible players.
Busisipho Siyobiis a public policy researcher with a focus on the intersection of mineral resource governance and climate change in Southern Africa. Her research focuses on advancing the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and social performance within the extractive industries and shaping climate change response strategies that foster sustainability. She leads a programme team in developing and executing the research strategy on mineral resource governance and climate change. She works closely with civil society, industry, and international organisations in this capacity to promote good governance, transparency, and accountability to enable sustainable investment and development. Busisipho holds a Master of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Cape Town.
