By Jane Chanda
Minister for Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga says the ministry remains committed towards driving growth in Zambia’s mining and agriculture sectors despite challenges in realising significant benefits from the revamped mining sector.
Speaking at the 2025 Copperbelt Agriculture, Mining, Industrial and Networking (CAMINEX) Expo themed “Creating a Regional Hub of Possibilities: Partnerships, Production, People,” in Kitwe yesterday, Mulenga said that while Zambia was yet to realise significant benefits from its revamped mining sector, the government would continue to push for growth amid mining reforms and agricultural gains.
The minister explained that the mines were still striving to increase production and restore profitability across the industry, which was why the benefits had not been fully realized, and emphasised the government’s commitment to driving growth through key policy shifts.
“The anticipated signing of a statutory instrument on local content next week is one of the key policy shifts we are undertaking to drive growth,” Mulenga said.
Mulenga also highlighted the strong performance in the agriculture sector, with a national maize yield of 3.6 million metric tonnes.
He called for a shift from traditional to mechanised farming methods to sustain and scale up agricultural productivity.
Speaking at the same event, ZANACO chief commercial officer Chali Mwefyeni said the bank remained committed to driving national development by prioritising key sectors including mining, agriculture, and energy through tailored financial products aligned with Zambia’s growth agenda.
Mwefyeni said ZANACO was maintaining its core mission of expanding financial inclusion while supporting key sectors that drove the country’s economy, with financial products aligned with Zambia’s growth agenda.
“By doing so, we are confident that we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of Zambians and contribute to the country’s economic growth,” said Mwefyeni.
The Expo, brought together stakeholders from various industries to discuss opportunities for growth and development in the country and the region.
