Zambia Targets 40% Local Participation in Mining Sector as Insaka Wraps Up
Mining Insaka Concludes with Renewed Commitment to Local Content Implementation
The Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka concluded in Lusaka with a firm government directive to accelerate the implementation of the Local Content Statutory Instrument (SI).
Speaking at the close of the event, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that local contractors and suppliers secure a greater share of opportunities in the country’s mining industry.
“Our goal is for Zambian contractors and suppliers to participate in the mining sector by up to 40 percent,” Minister Kabuswe stated. “However, local suppliers must strengthen their capacity to meet the standards and demands of mining companies.”
He described the signing of the Local Content SI as a bold and long-overdue step toward economic empowerment, noting that previous administrations had not enacted similar legislation despite years of discussion.
“This decision took courage,” he added. “It demonstrates our determination to ensure Zambians derive real value from the country’s mineral wealth.”
The Minister also urged participants to follow through on the resolutions adopted during the Insaka and to monitor progress in implementing them, emphasizing that the success of the initiative depends on consistent collaboration between government, the private sector, and local businesses.
The Local Content SI, recently authorised by President Hakainde Hichilema, seeks to ensure that a significant portion of mining-related procurement, labour, and services are sourced from Zambian entities.
The policy is expected to promote job creation, strengthen local industries, and increase value retention within the national economy.
