Govt moves to formalise mining in Luapula Province to empower communities

The government has announced plans to formalise mining operations in Luapula Province to ensure that local communities benefitted from the region’s mineral wealth.

Luapula Province Minister, Nason Musonda, reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting legal, sustainable, and community-driven mining practices.

Speaking at a media briefing in Mansa on Wednesday, Musonda said the government aimed to ensure mining was conducted in an orderly manner so that mineral royalties can support development projects such as schools, health facilities, and township roads.

He cited the model currently being implemented in Mufumbwe District—where 90 cooperatives were issued mining licenses at Kikonge Gold Mine—as a template to be replicated in Luapula to empower locals and curb illegal mining activities.

“A recent aerial survey has identified mineral deposits across the country,” Musonda said, adding that the law must be respected as all minerals belong to the State.

He also reiterated government’s commitment to addressing the energy deficit in Luapula to enhance value addition and promote job creation.

Musonda disclosed that the 50-megawatt solar power plant under construction in Mabumba was 40 percent complete and expected to be operational by December 2025.

“High-voltage transmission lines are being extended from Pensulo to Mansa and other districts,” he said.

He further revealed that the government was in discussions to unlock hydropower potential at Lumangwe and Mumbotuta Falls to attract investment in energy generation.

Additionally, Musonda announced that talks were at an advanced stage to establish a gemstone processing plant in Mansa to create jobs and add value to the province’s mineral resources.

He urged residents to refrain from engaging in illegal mining and to follow the established procedures, emphasising that mineral wealth must benefit the entire nation.

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