Government pushes mining dispute reforms

Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta, says government efforts to resolve mining disputes outside lengthy court processes are helping stabilise the sector and improving investor confidence. Speaking at the Zambia Trade and Investment Forum in Pretoria on Thursday, Kabeta said the policy shift had increased predictability for mining firms and reduced operational uncertainty. “Some firms that had faced possible closure due to lengthy disputes have since resumed operations following the policy shift,” he said.

Kabeta said the reforms formed part of broader measures under President Hakainde Hichilema aimed at strengthening the mining industry and creating a more stable investment climate. He noted that the reopening of affected mining operations was expected to contribute towards Zambia’s target of producing three million tonnes of copper annually. Kabeta also highlighted the establishment of the Mines Appeals Tribunal, which is expected to provide a formal platform for resolving grievances in the sector while reducing delays linked to litigation.“The measures are aimed at improving investor confidence and ensuring a more stable operating environment for both local and foreign mining companies,” he said. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.