The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia are strengthening Africa’s position on the global copper map, as rising demand for the metal reshapes the minerals economy.

A report by Visual Capitalist places the DRC among the world’s top four countries for copper reserves, making it the continent’s largest holder.

The DRC is expanding its influence through new industrial partnerships, including a deal between state miner Gécamines and Kamoto Copper Company, a major operation linked to Glencore Plc.

Meanwhile, Zambia is targeting over one million tonnes of copper output by 2026 and aims to triple production to three million tonnes by 2031, backed by efforts to attract international investment.

Both nations anchor production along the resource-rich Central African Copperbelt, positioning the region as critical to future global supply.

Globally, copper reserves remain highly concentrated. Chile leads with about 180 million tonnes—nearly twice that of the next largest holder—while just five countries control more than half of the known supply. Total global reserves are estimated at around 980 million tonnes.

Copper’s role is also evolving. Once primarily used in construction, it is now essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, power grids, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. As global electrification accelerates, demand is expected to climb sharply. Yet much of the remaining copper is becoming harder and more expensive to extract, raising concerns about supply constraints.

This shift places the DRC and Zambia at the centre of not just Africa’s mining sector, but the broader global energy transition. Analysts note that sustained investment in infrastructure and governance will be key to converting reserve wealth into long-term economic gains for both countries.