Kitwe, Zambia, 27^th May 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Zambia has reiterated the importance of formalizing the Artisanal Small-Scale Mining sector to enhance compliance, sustainability and access to markets and finance – particularly for women and youth.

The ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, convened a high-level panel discussion at the Copperbelt Agriculture, Mining, Industrial and Networking Expo (CAMINEX) 2025, on 27^th May 2025 and themed: “Unlocking Zambia's Artisanal Small-Scale Miners (ASM) Potential: Partnerships, Policy and Pathways to Inclusive and Sustainable Development”. 

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Mines and Mineral Development, Honourable Paul C. Kabuswe, MP, Director of Large Scale Mining and Mineral Investment Promotion, Elite Mhone, announced the enactment of the groundbreaking Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025, designed to revolutionize the country's mining industry. This legislation establishes a dedicated Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Fund to support Zambian miners while mandating preferential employment and procurement opportunities for local businesses and workers.

"The Act's robust framework will accelerate mineral exploration, attract significant investment, and create thousands of jobs across the value chain. Already, the government has issued 900 licenses to small-scale miners for strategic minerals including gold, copper, lithium, and gemstones - a clear demonstration of its commitment to inclusive growth." shared the Honourable Minister in his insightful opening remarks. He further emphasized the urgency of harnessing ASM's full potential to generate employment, stimulate local economies, and contribute to national revenue.

Following the announcement of this landmark legislation, UNDP Zambia's Deputy Resident Representative, Mr Laurent Rudasingwa also reasserted UNDP’s strategic interventions in the sector, highlighting support through the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, the Environmental Governance Programme, the Supplier Development Programme, and the timbuktoo MineTech Hub. He applauded the Government of Zambia on issusing the "Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025", stressing the importance of formalising the ASM sector to enhance compliance, sustainability, and access to markets and finance — particularly for women and the youth. Amidst growing global demand for critical minerals, Zambia is uniquely positioned to promote responsible practices that support artisanal and small-scale miners on the path to formalisation. This further presents an opportunity to unlock the sector’s potential for job creation and drive the country toward economic prosperity through a more inclusive and broadly beneficial mining industry.