GASH-BARKA — The Bisha Mine, a cornerstone of Eritrea's mining industry, announced a suite of technological upgrades as of mid-February 2026 aimed at securing long-term viability and increasing operational efficiency. Now focusing on high-output production of gold, copper, zinc, and silver, the mine has integrated advanced automation and digital monitoring systems to optimize ore recovery rates. The operator, Bisha Mining Share Company (BMSC)—a partnership between Zijin Mining and ENAMCO—confirmed that waste rock stripping and ancillary infrastructure for the new Hambok open pit have been completed, with ore extraction officially beginning this quarter. These innovations are expected to boost 2026 mineral output significantly while reducing environmental impact through a water recirculation system that now recycles over 80% of processing water. The integration of solar energy into the mine's power grid is also underway, marking a shift toward sustainable mining practices in the region. As global commodity prices for copper and gold remain at record highs in early 2026, Bisha's upgraded facilities position Eritrea as a key mineral export hub on the Red Sea.