26/09/2025
GOVERNMENT ISSUES 76 ARTISANAL MINING LICENCES IN SERENJE DISTRICT
Today, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, informed Parliament that between January 2021 and July 2025, a total of 76 artisanal mining licenses were issued in Serenje District.
These licenses cover various minerals such as copper, gold, manganese, quartz, limestone, talc, and iron ore, showcasing the district's significant mineral potential.
This statement was made following a request by Mr. Emmanuel Banda, Member of Parliament for Muchinga Parliamentary Constituency, highlighting Government's efforts to formalise and support the artisanal mining sector.
Here are the highlights:
✅Hon. Kabuswe reported that the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has seen considerable growth in recent years, serving as a vital source of livelihood for many Zambians and contributing significantly to the country’s socio-economic development.
✅Government recognises the potential of this sector to enhance revenue generation and wealth creation, and is committed to reorganising and supporting it.
✅Revealed that to facilitate the growth of the ASM sector, Government has implemented several initiatives, including:
i. The formation of Mining Cooperatives aim to formalize informal mining activities and enhance collective participation.
ii. Training miners in basic mining methods, occupational health, safety, and environmental protection.
iii. Facilitating access to finance, markets, and mining equipment for artisanal miners.
✅And the Minister indicated that despite the encouraging developments, artisanal mining activities face several challenges which include:
i Limited Access to Geological Information
ii. Financial Constraints
iii. Lack of Mining Equipment and Technology
iv. Insufficient Technical Skills
V. Occupational Health and Environmental Safety Concerns
✅To address these challenges, Government is undertaking several initiatives by way of;
i Establishment of a Dedicated Department for ASM
ii. Facilitating Access to Finance and Equipment
iii. Conducting Training Programs for Miners
iv. Encouraging Cooperative Formation
V. Conducting High-Resolution Aerial Geophysical Surveys
✅Additionally, the Hon. Kabuswe informed parliament that government has enacted new legislation, replacing the Mines and Minerals Development Act with the Minerals Regulation Commission Act and the Geological and Minerals Development Act whose aim is to create a supportive legal and institutional framework for the ASM sector.
✅Mr Kabuswe concluded by saying that the issuance of artisanal mining licences to youths in Serenje is not merely about granting access to mineral rights but represents a gateway to opportunity, empowerment, and dignity.
✅He reaffirmed Government’s is commitment to transforming the ASM sector into a sustainable driver of job creation and socio-economic development.
