Zambia Urges Stronger Mining Oversight as New Minerals Regulation Board Takes Office
The Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, has inaugurated the Board of Commissioners for the Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC), calling for swift action to strengthen oversight in Zambia’s mining sector.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Lusaka, Mr Kabuswe said the mining industry remains a key pillar of the economy, contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product through job creation and wider socio-economic development.
He, however, noted that the sector is undergoing rapid change driven by global market shifts, technological innovation, environmental considerations, and increasing demands for transparency and good governance.
Mr Kabuswe said the MRC, as a statutory regulatory body, plays a critical role in overseeing mineral exploration, mining, and processing activities, stressing that its mandate is “strategic” as custodians of the country’s mineral wealth.
“You are custodians of one of our nation’s most valuable endowments,” he said, urging the new Board to accelerate key decisions aimed at expanding and modernising the sector for the benefit of Zambians.
He identified the immediate establishment of the Mines Licensing Committee as a priority, describing licensing as the foundation of all mining activity. He further urged the Board to ensure decisions are both prompt and carefully considered to support sector growth.
The newly appointed Board Chairperson, Matongo Matamwandi, welcomed the appointment, describing mining as the lifeline of Zambia’s economy. He pledged that the Board would carry out its oversight role diligently while promoting accountability, efficiency, and public trust.
“We will not interfere with operations. Our role is oversight. Our hands will be off, but our eyes will be there to ensure transparency and performance,” he said.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Anthony Chilenge, also emphasised the need for a strong regulatory framework to effectively manage the country’s mineral resources. He challenged the Board to strengthen regulatory systems to boost investor confidence across the mining value chain.
He said effective regulation is essential for ensuring sustainable growth in the sector, particularly as Zambia seeks to maximise benefits from its mineral wealth amid rising global demand and increased scrutiny of governance standards in extractive industries.
