NKOMBO KACHEMBA
Lusaka
CENTRE for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has emphasised that achieving the objectives of recent reforms in Zambia’s artisanal and smallscale mining (ASM) sector will require significantly increased budgetary allocations to match the growing scale and complexity of mining activities.
CTPD research associate for extractives, Stephen Kambani, said in a statement that while Government has made notable progress in reforming the ASM sector, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on adequate financing and strengthened institutional capacity.
Dr Kambani noted that the ASM sector has historically been characterised by illegal mining, mineral smuggling, environmental degradation and unsafe working conditions, which have limited its contribution to national development.
He said Government’s recent policy interventions, including the Mines and Minerals Regulations Commission Act of 2024, are aimed at enhancing regulatory oversight, improving service delivery and curbing illegal mining activities.
Dr Kambani added that the Geological Minerals Development Act No. 2 of 2025 has further strengthened the reform agenda by introducing a dedicated ASM Fund and establishing a directorate for artisanal and small-scale mining to support formalisation and improve productivity.
“While these reforms hold strong transformative potential, their success will depend on sustained financing and institutional capacity,” he said.
He also acknowledged Government’s efforts to formalise ASM operations and establish gold marketing centres, noting that international experience from countries such as Ghana shows that structured formalisation, backed by strong enforcement and organised markets, can significantly boost mineral revenue.
Dr Kambani has since called for enhanced monitoring and enforcement systems, including the use of drone technology and the development of a national geospatial mining database to improve transparency and compliance.
He said that while Zambia has made commendable progress, effective implementation and adequate resource allocation will be critical to unlocking the full potential of the ASM sector….https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
