By Jane Chanda
President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed concern over the rising number of fatalities in Zambia’s illegal and unsafe mining operations, particularly in light of the recent tragic accident at Lwiili Mine in Mumbwa, which claimed 10 lives and left 20 others feared missing.
And Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe disclosed that Zambia had secured US$10 billion in mining investments over the past three years due to favorable policies and reforms.
Meanwhile, Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) chief executive officer Chris Griffith pledged KCM’s support for the 3 million metric tonnes goal, announcing plans to invest $1 billion over the next five years to boost copper production to 300,000 tons annually.
Speaking at the Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka in Lusaka, President Hichilema said the government was taking proactive steps to ensure small-scale miners operated within legal and safe parameters.
He said over 500 licenses had been issued to Zambians to embark on mining operations.
The President highlighted Zambia’s potential to contribute significantly to the global demand for critical minerals, citing the country’s rich natural resources.
“The government is committed to increasing copper production to 3 million metric tonnes while encouraging diversification into other minerals,” President Hichilema said.
He said this goal would not only boost Zambia’s economy but also maximize the country’s natural resource benefits.
President Hichilema assured investors that Zambia’s policies and reforms were aimed at ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.
And Kabuswe said a further investment was needed to meet copper production target by 2031.
He said Zambia’s mining sector had made significant strides in recent years, with notable improvements in regulatory frameworks and investment attractiveness.
The minister attributed these advancements to the government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment.
Griffith said KCM’s planned to enhance operational efficiency and increase production capacity.
He said his vision included modernizing existing infrastructure, adopting cutting-edge technology, and fostering partnerships with local communities to ensure sustainable and responsible mining practices.
Griffith also emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving Zambia’s mining goals.
“We believe that partnering with local stakeholders and investing in community development initiatives is crucial for long-term success,” Griffith said, adding that KCM is committed to creating shared value for all stakeholders,” said Griffith.
Zhanyani Li, Chairperson of the Chinese Mining Enterprise Association in Zambia highlighted the association’s significant investments in the country.
“We have invested $3.5 billion over the past 26 years and plan to raise this to $5 billion, targeting a copper output of 80,000 metric tonnes,” Li said.
He also shared the Chinese Mining Enterprise Association’s commitment to transferring technology and expertise to local mining companies.
He further said this knowledge sharing would enable Zambian miners to improve operational efficiency, enhance safety standards, and increase productivity, ultimately contributing to the sector’s sustainable growth.
Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata, expressed optimism that the Insaka would provide opportunities for stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to keep Zambia’s mining sector competitive.
The five-day Insaka conference, held under the theme “Mining Beyond Copper, Celebrating 100 Years of Mining in Zambia,” brought together key industry players to address challenges in the sector and promote sustainable growth.
