The private sector in the mining industry have appealed to the government to increase budgetary allocations towards mine safety, exploration and infrastructure in the 2027 National Budget. Leonk Mining Consultants Executive Director, Leonard Kadabula, said additional funding…

The private sector in the mining industry have appealed to the government to increase budgetary allocations towards mine safety, exploration and infrastructure in the 2027 National Budget.

Leonk Mining Consultants Executive Director, Leonard Kadabula, said additional funding towards safety programmes will help reduce accidents and loss of lives.

And Mr Kadabula noted that stakeholders appreciate the ongoing government efforts to train miners and promote safer mining practices.

He further advised that national geological and geophysical data should be made accessible to private sector investors at affordable rates to support exploration, particularly among local and junior mining companies.

The private sector has also appealed for increased funding in the budget for the formalisation and mechanisation of artisanal mining operations, as well as partnerships between small-scale operators and established mining companies.

“Improved road networks and infrastructure is critical to opening up remote mineral-rich areas, particularly for copper and gold exploration,” Mr Kadabula said.

He added that the targeted investment in the sector will strengthen small-scale mining’s contribution to Zambia’s ambition of producing three million metric tonnes of copper annually by 2031.