Govt Addresses Industry Concerns Over New Cadastral Tenure Management Software
The Zambian Government has responded to industry concerns regarding the proposed changes to the Cadastral Tenure Management Software for Zambia.
In a joint press briefing, Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, Information and Media Permanent Secretary Mr. Thabo Kawana, and Smart-Zambia National Coordinator Mr. Percy Chinyama provided key updates on the new system’s development and its benefits.
Dr. Kabeta emphasized that the new system aligns with the Data Protection Act No. 3 of 2021, which mandates that all critical systems and infrastructure be hosted within the country. This shift addresses the current system’s non-compliance with this provision.
The new system is designed to be user-friendly and includes additional features such as an online payment module. It also interfaces with other critical systems, including the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) on the Government Service Bus (GSB) Portal, facilitating seamless data exchange within the ecosystem.
Mr. Chinyama highlighted that the new system’s fully automated processes, hosted on the GSB platform, eliminate the risks associated with human intervention. This approach ensures that government services are accessed through a single platform, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. The new system also eliminates the need for expensive annual software maintenance fees.
Addressing concerns about delays in the issuance of land title deeds by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), Mr. Kawana clarified that the government is not aware of any technical problems affecting the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.
The government has engaged with users throughout the development process, conducting user acceptance tests (UATs) and preparing for a final UAT.
The new system, currently undergoing rigorous testing, adheres to the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2015 and its subsidiary legislation. It incorporates geographical grids and cadastre units as required by law, ensuring no tenements are affected. The system is designed to help the Ministry and mining right holders manage their tenements with an easy-to-use digital dashboard and real-time performance view.
The contract for the current system, which had a three-year term ending in 2023, was extended by the Ministry. The government will communicate further details about the transition to the new system once development is completed and it is ready for rollout.
In summary, the newly developed Cadastral Tenure Management Software represents a significant step forward in ensuring compliance with data protection laws, enhancing user experience, and reducing operational costs. The government remains committed to engaging with stakeholders and ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.
