Zambia Urges Public Participation in Mining Sector Reforms

The Government is calling on citizens to actively engage in ongoing reforms within the mining sector. Edward Shabani, Senior Planner at the Mines and Minerals Development Ministry, shared the aim to implement policy reforms to increase copper production and benefit local communities.

Speaking at a joint meeting with the Centre for Trade Policy and Development in Kitwe, Shabani urged stakeholders to express their concerns surrounding government policy direction, recognising the impact such decisions hold for mining activities nationwide.

Augustine Kasongo, Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, reiterated the government's commitment to fostering a thriving mining sector, particularly within the mineral-abundant Copperbelt region.

Isaac Mwaipopo, Executive Director of the Centre for Trade Policy and Development, echoed the importance of ensuring local communities benefit from the projected growth in the mining sector, aligning with the government's ambitious target of reaching 3 million metric tons of copper production by 2031.

Victor Kalesha, President of the Emerald and Semi Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia, expressed optimism about achieving the 3 million metric tons target, attributing it to the ongoing mining policy reforms. The country is currently the second largest copper producer in the continent, and eighth largest globally.

The discussions highlight the collaborative efforts between government bodies and stakeholders to facilitate sustainable growth and development within Zambia's mining sector following substantial international investment.