The government has encouraged Zambian citizens to actively participate in the ongoing reforms within the mining sector.
Edward Shabani, Senior Planner for Mines and Minerals Development, stated that the government aims to implement several policy reforms in mining to boost copper production and ensure local benefits through increased local content. Shabani made these remarks during a collaborative awareness and consultation session on policy and legal frameworks held in Kitwe, organized by the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development and the Centre for Trade Policy and Development.
Shabani emphasized the importance of stakeholders in the mining industry voicing their concerns regarding governmental policy direction, highlighting the significant impact any decision in the mining sector can have on national mining activities.
Augustine Kasongo, Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, reiterated the government’s commitment, represented by the New Dawn administration, to fostering a thriving mining sector, particularly in the Copperbelt region. This statement was conveyed by Daniel Kamenga, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Copperbelt.
Isaac Mwaipopo, Executive Director of the Centre for Trade Policy and Development, acknowledged the government’s ambitious target of reaching 3 million metric tons of copper production by 2031. However, he emphasized the necessity of understanding how this target will benefit local communities and contribute to economic growth.
Victor Kalesha, President of the Emerald and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia, expressed confidence that Zambia could achieve the 3 million metric tons target, attributing this potential success to the current mining policy reforms in place.
