By 
The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has announced the establishment of market centres aimed at promoting formal trade in gold and other mineral resources across the country.
Permanent Secretary, Kabeta Hapenga, said the initiative was part of government’s broader efforts to streamline the sale of minerals and ensure transparency in the sector.
The market centres would initially be piloted in an amalgamated manner in Mumbwa, Chisamba, Rufunsa, and Mpika districts.
Hapenga was speaking during a courtesy call on Mufumbwe District Commissioner, Elijah Munyompe, where he explained that the model draws inspiration from Ghana, West Africa, where a similar system has recorded significant success.
He further noted in a statement that small-scale miners would be issued offer letters and eventually granted mining licenses once they organise themselves into viable cooperatives and present in substantial numbers.
“The government is committed to preserving our mineral wealth for the benefit of future generations. Formalisation is a key step towards achieving that goal,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mufumbwe Member of Parliament, Elliot Kamondo, called on the government to expedite the issuance of offer letters to artisanal and small-scale miners in the area.
Kamondo said many local residents were eager to transition from informal to formal mining operations and contribute meaningfully to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments