Zijin Mining has outlined plans for aggressive global acquisitions as it sharpens its focus on gold and copper assets across multiple jurisdictions. the strategy is a deliberate push to secure long-life resources while also diversifying geopolitical exposure. At the same time, the miner is targeting substantial growth in lithium production in 2026, thereby reinforcing its positioning around energy-transition minerals and long-term demand linked to electric vehicles and grid storage.
Smart ventilation tech targets underground efficiency
Meanwhile, TLT Turbo Africa has unveiled a new “smart fan” system aimed at modernising underground mine ventilation. Specifically, the solution integrates digital controls, sensors and real-time monitoring to dynamically adjust airflow based on demand. As a result, over-ventilation and unnecessary power draw are reduced, which is expected to lower energy costs while simultaneously improving working conditions in deeper and more complex underground operations.
Automation, AI and Digitalisation
AI-led lithium exploration gains momentum
FOX Resources has deployed its “Xplore AI Discovery Engine” in Ontario to identify lithium targets at scale. By combining machine learning with LiDAR and geological datasets, the platform aims to highlight subtle structural and geochemical signals that conventional exploration workflows often miss. Consequently, the approach is designed to shorten target-generation timelines and reduce early-stage exploration risk.
Satellite hyperspectral targeting launched
Similarly, PhotoSat has introduced a regional hyperspectral exploration targeting solution using satellite data. In practice, the system analyses mineral signatures across large areas to help explorers prioritise targets before committing to costly fieldwork. Importantly, it is intended for use in underexplored or remote regions where ground access is limited.
Cipher Mining scales AI and HPC infrastructure
Cipher Mining is expanding its AI and high-performance computing footprint, securing new long-term contracts and beginning construction on additional facilities. This expansion highlights growing demand for compute-intensive workloads tied to AI, modelling and data processing. At the same time, it reflects the increasing overlap between digital infrastructure investment and resource-linked energy strategies.
Infrastructure, Rail and Corridors
Lobito Corridor funding surpasses US$6bn
Lobito Corridor exceeds US$6 billion following a US$535 million financing package finalised in December 2025. Crucially, backers include the U.S. Development Finance Corporation and Trafigura. As a result, the corridor is increasingly viewed as a strategic export route linking Zambia’s Copperbelt to Atlantic ports, reducing reliance on longer eastern routes.
Ivanhoe Atlantic clears rail access hurdle
In parallel, Ivanhoe Atlantic has moved closer to developing its high-grade iron-ore assets in Guinea after Liberia ratified a key rail access and concession agreement. This decision unlocks a critical logistics pathway for exports and significantly reduces development risk for the project. Historically, rail access has been one of the main constraints for West African iron-ore developments.
Corporate, Financial and M&A Activity
Barrick’s Africa portfolio drives earnings growth
Turning to producers, Barrick Gold reported a 65% earnings surge, led by strong performance from its African operations. In particular, the results underline the scale and quality of its assets on the continent. Alongside financial performance, Barrick completed the second phase of a conservation initiative, reintroducing white rhinos into Garamba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Axis files major arbitration claim
Axis Mining has filed a US$28.9 billion arbitration claim against Guinea. The dispute highlights ongoing legal and sovereign-risk pressures facing mining investors in parts of West Africa, especially around contract stability, permitting and fiscal terms.
Talon and Revival Gold advance acquisitions
Elsewhere in the sector, Talon Metals is set to acquire a Lundin Mining US subsidiary, thereby strengthening its asset base and exposure to critical metals. Separately, Revival Gold has exercised its option to acquire 100% of Barrick’s stake in the Mercur gold project in Utah, positioning the site for redevelopment and a potential production restart.
Policy, Projects and Innovation
Zambia launches MineTech Hub
At a policy level, Zambia has unveiled the Timbuktoo MineTech Hub under the Timbuktoo initiative. The hub is intended to support mining-focused innovation, local technology development and the adoption of digital and sustainable practices across the sector.
Zambia accepts mining taxes in yuan
In addition, Zambia has confirmed it will accept mining royalties and taxes in Chinese yuan, becoming the first African country to formally do so. This policy shift gives operators added currency flexibility and reflects the growing role of China-linked capital and trade in Zambia’s mining sector.
KEFI launches Tulu Kapi gold project
Meanwhile, KEFI Minerals has officially launched the high-grade Tulu Kapi Gold Project in Ethiopia. The milestone marks a significant step toward establishing large-scale modern gold production in the country after years of development and financing work.
Atlantic Lithium awaits Ghana lease ratification
Atlantic Lithium says it remains confident that the mining lease for its Ewoyaa lithium project in Ghana will be ratified soon. If approved, the lease would clear the final major regulatory hurdle ahead of construction and financing.
Safety, Equipment and Emerging Tech
Hexagon partners on underground safety testing
Hexagon has partnered with Montana Technological University to test next-generation underground technologies. The collaboration focuses on collision avoidance, operator safety systems and advanced simulation in real mining environments.
CleanSpace launches data-driven safety reporting
In a similar vein, CleanSpace has rolled out its Insights Reporting tool, which uses real-world usage data to strengthen respiratory protection programmes. As a result, the platform enables measurable safety outcomes and more transparent compliance reporting.
Drones and counter-drone tech gain traction
ZenaTech, parent of ZenaDrone, has completed three acquisitions to accelerate its Drone-as-a-Service expansion in North America. Meanwhile, Droneshield shares rose sharply in early 2026 trading, reflecting strong investor confidence in drone and counter-drone markets.
Caterpillar broadens object detection access
Finally, Caterpillar has expanded the availability of its Object Detection systems to mixed-brand surface mining fleets. This move reinforces collision avoidance and site-wide safety across operations running diverse equipment types.
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