President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that the government plans to establish a large-scale gold mine in Mpika district, saying the project is expected to create employment opportunities for thousands of young people and stimulate economic growth in Muchinga Province.
Addressing residents during a community engagement at Mpika Boys Secondary School football ground, President Hichilema said the proposed investment forms part of the government’s broader strategy to unlock Zambia’s mineral wealth and translate it into jobs and improved livelihoods.
“We want to open up a major gold mine here in Mpika because our objective is to create jobs for our young people, grow the local economy and ensure that our mineral resources benefit the people,” President Hichilema said.
The Head of State also acknowledged the poor state of the Chinsali–Mpika road, a critical transport corridor that requires urgent rehabilitation.
“We are aware of the condition of the Chinsali–Mpika road and will soon start working on it to ease the movement of people, goods and services to support economic growth,” he said.
President Hichilema further announced that the government will undertake works on the Mwelishi and Kampamba bridges to improve connectivity and facilitate trade and other economic activities in the area.
“The works on Mwelishi and Kampamba bridges will improve access, enhance trade and make it easier for communities and businesses to move goods and services,” he added.
President Hichilema said his administration’s continued investment in roads, bridges, mining, education and other sectors demonstrates its commitment to delivering inclusive development across the country.
The President also urged the people of Mpika and Zambians at large to vote for the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) in the August 13, 2026 general election.
He said a vote for UPND means more jobs, free education, skills development, meal allowances and school feeding programmes among others.
“Support the UPND on August 13 so that we can continue creating jobs, sustain free education, expand skills development and maintain the school feeding programme. These are investments in the future of our children and our country,” President Hichilema said.
He reaffirmed that the UPND administration remains focused on improving the welfare of Zambians through policies aimed at promoting economic growth, youth empowerment and inclusive national development.
