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Copperbelt Mining Policy Monitoring Team (CMPT) has urged the United Party for National Development (UPND) administration to establish clear and consistent policies that will enable Zambia to fully benefit from the wave of mining investments taking place across the country.
CMPT Executive Director, George Jere, said in an interview in Kitwe on Sunday that while mining activities had shown progress under the current administration, gaps in policy consistency and implementation were limiting meaningful beneficiation from the country’s mineral resources.
“Policies that could help improve the operation of the mining sector are still undecided, and there has not been a significant plan outlined yet,” Jere said.
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He explained that this lack of clarity had prevented Zambia from fully leveraging its minerals—ranging from copper and gold to other critical resources—into broader economic benefits.
To position mining as a springboard for wider economic activity, Jere emphasized the need for consistency in policy implementation, ensuring alignment with global industry demands.
At the same time, he acknowledged the progress made since the UPND took office, noting a major shift in the sector compared to the uncertain environment the government inherited.
“For three years, there was no investment in copper production, despite its crucial contribution to tax revenue. The situation was bleak, deterring meaningful investment,” Jere said, recalling that the fate of Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) was left to the courts rather than government or investors.
He said the return of Vedanta Resources to KCM and Mopani’s securing of an equity partner had restored confidence and brought relief to the Copperbelt.
Beyond KCM and Mopani, Jere highlighted additional investments at Chambishi, Mingomba, Lubambe, Luanshya Copper Mines (LCM), Mimbula, and the Kansanshi Mine expansion, all of which he said could generate significant spin-offs for suppliers, contractors, and other sectors of the economy.
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