President Hichilema Challenges Mining Companies to Account for Job Creation
President Hakainde Hichilema has challenged mining companies operating in Zambia to begin reporting on the number of jobs they have created and plan to create, particularly for young people, as part of the Government’s drive towards inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Delivering his keynote address at the Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka in Lusaka yesterday, President Hichilema highlighted that the mining sector, a key contributor to Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), must play a more visible role in tackling youth unemployment and poverty reduction.
“Next year, we want these mining companies to report to us how many jobs they have created and how many they intend to create for our youth,” President Hichilema stated.
He emphasised that while Zambia continues to welcome foreign investment, such investments must translate into tangible benefits for citizens, particularly young people who face limited employment opportunities despite the nation’s vast mineral wealth.
The Head of State reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to maintaining a fair, transparent, and predictable business environment that supports both investors and local communities.
Job creation remains a core priority under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), which seeks to deliver decent work, raise productivity, and stimulate inclusive growth through targeted investments in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
President Hichilema’s directive is expected to promote greater accountability within the mining industry, ensuring that private sector growth aligns with Zambia’s national employment goals and contributes meaningfully to social and economic transformation.
