The Centre of Excellence for National Critical Minerals at the University of Zambia is a strategic research and development hub focused on the sustainable exploration, processing, and utilization of Zambia’s critical mineral resources. Established to support the country’s growing demand for minerals essential to modern technologies—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—the Centre plays a vital role in advancing mineral beneficiation, value addition, and local capacity building. Through interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships, and policy engagement, the Centre aims to position Zambia as a leader in the responsible development of critical minerals, contributing to national economic growth, energy transition, and global supply chain resilience.