Govt finalising mining local content law, says Minister of Mines, Kabuswe

Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, says the long-awaited Mining Local Content Statutory Instrument (SI) is ready and will soon be signed into law.

Speaking at the opening of the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) Local Content Conference and Expo at Protea Hotel in Ndola on Friday, Kabuswe expressed frustration over delays in implementing the law.

“President Hakainde Hichilema wants the SI signed like yesterday. We are tired of back-and-forth engagements with stakeholders pulling in different directions,” he said.

Kabuswe said the government wants to see increased participation of local suppliers and contractors in the mining value chain, guided by thresholds set in the draft SI.

He added that the government’s push to revamp the mining sector was meant to ensure economic benefits accrue to the local economy.

“Out of the US$4.5 billion annual spend in the mining sector, less than 10 percent goes to local suppliers and contractors,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Copperbelt Minister, Elisha Matambo, urged stakeholders to support the local content law for inclusive economic development.

ZAM president, Ashu Sagar, on his part emphasised the need for improved business access to the mining sector.

“This meeting is key in facilitating dialogue on local content. Inclusive business access is critical to making the economy more resilient,” he said.

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.