Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe says President Hakainde Hichilema has fulfilled his promise to transition illegal miners into formal participants in the mining sector.
Mr. Kabuswe explained that the initiative is aimed at restoring dignity among miners, particularly youths engaged in informal mining, while steering them away from criminal activities. He said government has rolled out programmes such as cooperative skills training and capacity-building for artisanal and small-scale miners.
He was speaking in Choma District during the official closing of an artisanal and small-scale mining cooperative training programme.
Mr. Kabuswe added that formalising the sector will not only improve safety standards but also increase government revenue through proper regulation and taxation, while ensuring miners operate in a structured and sustainable environment.
Meanwhile, Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that local people not only acquire mining licences but also own and benefit directly from mining operations. He noted that in the past, limited local participation had left the sector largely dominated by foreign and non-local entities.
Mr. Mweetwa said the current administration is focused on empowering Zambians to take a leading role in the country’s mineral wealth, adding that this will contribute to job creation and economic growth.
And speaking on behalf of the participants, Chimuka Kahumbu thanked government for the initiative, saying the training reflects a strong commitment to transforming small-scale mining into a structured and beneficial sector for Zambians.
He expressed optimism that the knowledge gained would help miners operate more professionally and safely, while improving their livelihoods.
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