ECONOMY | Govt Grants 975 Small-Scale Mining Licences
Government has granted 975 artisanal and small-scale mining licences to Zambians as part of efforts to formalise the mining subsector and increase local participation.
Mines and Minerals Development Minister Brenda Tambatamba told Parliament on Wednesday that more than 2,000 miners from over 900 cooperatives had received training in occupational safety, environmental management and financial literacy.
“These interventions are intended to build the technical and entrepreneurial capacity of local miners, improve compliance with mining regulations and facilitate their transition into formal and sustainable mining operations,” Tambatamba said.
Meanwhile, the Government is developing Critical Minerals Regulations aimed at promoting local mineral processing and manufacturing rather than exporting raw materials.
Tambatamba disclosed that US$12.1 billion in mining investments had been committed or were under implementation since 2021, covering major projects including Mopani, Konkola, Kansanshi, Lumwana and Mingomba.
She said the reforms were intended to create jobs, strengthen regulation and ensure Zambia retains greater economic value from its mineral resources.
The People’s Brief | Francine Lilu
12 November 2026