Definition & Context
The Central African Copperbelt is one of the world's most important mining regions, stretching across the Lualaba and Haut-Katanga provinces of the DRC and into northern Zambia. The DRC side of the Copperbelt hosts world-class mines including Kamoa-Kakula (Ivanhoe Mines), Tenke Fungurume (China Molybdenum), Kamoto and Mutanda (Glencore), and numerous smaller operations. The region produces the majority of the world's cobalt and a significant share of global copper.
Key Facts
- • Spans DRC (Lualaba, Haut-Katanga) and Zambia
- • Hosts ~70% of global cobalt production
- • Major mines: Kamoa-Kakula, Tenke Fungurume, Kamoto, Mutanda
- • Key cities: Lubumbashi, Kolwezi, Likasi, Kipushi
- • Infrastructure includes rail links to Dar es Salaam and Durban ports
Global Context
The Copperbelt is arguably the most strategically important mining region for the global energy transition, given its concentration of cobalt and copper — both essential for EV batteries and renewable energy infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Copperbelt located?
The Copperbelt spans southeastern DRC (Lualaba and Haut-Katanga provinces) and northern Zambia. Major DRC cities in the region include Lubumbashi, Kolwezi, and Likasi.