Mumbwa Gold Trading Centre completed

The construction of the Mumbwa Mineral Market Centre in Central Province has been completed, with authorities now preparing the facility for official commissioning and operations. The project, whose construction began last year, is expected to play a key role in formalising gold trade in the district and enhancing benefits for artisanal and small-scale miners. Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) Director of Mine Regulation and Standards, Desiderius Chapewa, confirmed the development during an inspection of the facility in Mumbwa.

Mr Chapewa said the centre is designed to unlock the full potential of the mining sector while ensuring that citizens benefit fairly from mineral resources. He stated the objective is to provide an organised and regulated marketplace where miners can sell their gold through official channels. Mr Chapewa added that the centre will bring together critical stakeholders such as the Minerals Regulation Commission, Zambia Revenue Authority, Zambia Gold Company, the Bank of Zambia, and licensed aggregators, under one roof.

Chapewa further noted that the establishment of the market centre will help curb illegal mining activities and black-market transactions by offering a secure and legitimate platform for trade. The facility will also display daily mineral prices to ensure miners receive fair value for their gold. Meanwhile, Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Architect, Choolwe Kaponda, confirmed that all major construction works have been finalised and the building is ready for handover.

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The contractor, Tonlex Investment Director, Angelo Mwale, also indicated that the facility is ready for operational use. Once operational, the Mumbwa Mineral Market Centre is expected to strengthen regulation in the gold sector, improve revenue collection and support sustainable economic development in the region.

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