Zambia orders crackdown on mining firms over local content compliance

Zambia’s Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, has directed regulators to intensify monitoring of mining companies to ensure strict compliance with the country’s local content law, as the government pushes for greater shared prosperity from the sector.

Speaking at the official media launch of the Zambia Mining & Investment Insaka 2026 in Lusaka on Tuesday (5 May), Kabuswe said authorities would “go all out” to verify whether mining firms are adhering to legal requirements to support local businesses, contractors, and suppliers.

He noted that with the first quarter of the year concluded, the mining regulator—working alongside relevant government offices—has been tasked to conduct comprehensive compliance checks and provide public feedback. The move follows concerns that some companies may not be fully meeting local content obligations.

According to Kabuswe, enforcing local content provisions is central to the government’s agenda of ensuring mining benefits host communities and contributes to inclusive economic growth.

“Shared prosperity is critical. We cannot continue with mining activities and leave communities behind,” he said, emphasizing that the law is designed to empower local enterprises and create sustainable livelihoods.

The directive forms part of broader efforts by the government to strengthen oversight in the sector while advancing sustainability through environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles.