Ministry of Mines and Minerals Department Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta says, Zambia is strategically positioned to contribute meaningfully to the global critical minerals landscape that has continued to evolve at an unprecedented pace.
Dr. Kabeta says, demand for critical minerals has grown significantly, driven by the global transition towards clean energy technologies, electric mobility and digital innovation.
He says, the country is endowed with vast mineral resources, we have an opportunity not only to increase mineral production, but also to leverage our mineral wealth for economic transformation, industrialisation, job creation and sustainable development.
It is against this background, that Government developed and launched the Critical Minerals Strategy in 2024 in order to unlock value across the mining value chain while ensuring that mineral resources contribute to inclusive and sustainable national development as espoused in the National Mineral Resources Development Policy and the Eighth (8th ) National Development Plan.
Dr. Kabeta says, the developments require Zambia to remain agile, innovative and responsive if we are to maintain our competitive advantage and maximise the benefits arising from our abundant mineral resources.
“At the same time, technological advancements, shifting supply chains and increasing competition among mineral-producing countries have reshaped the global investment environment”.
He says, the developments require Zambia to remain agile, innovative and responsive if we are to maintain our competitive advantage and maximise the benefits arising from our abundant mineral resources.
The strategy further places strong emphasis on mineral beneficiation and value addition so as to maximise economic returns, promote industrialisation and create employment opportunities for the Zambian people.
He reiterated that Government remains steadfast in promoting responsible mining practices that protect our environment, empower local communities and create lasting socio-economic benefits for present and future generations.
The Permanent Secretary has since encouraged all participants to engage openly, constructively and objectively throughout this retreat.
“Let us take advantage of the wealth of expertise represented in this room to produce a Strategy that is practical, forward-looking and responsive to both national priorities and global developments”.
He said this during the official opening of the Mid-Term Review Retreat of the Zambia Critical Minerals Strategy in Kafue
