Zambia Seeks EU Support to Strengthen Mining and Economic Development
Zambia’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Development, Hon. Paul Kabuswe, has called on the European Union (EU) to bolster its support for Zambia’s mining sector and overall economic growth.
The Minister made the appeal during a bilateral meeting with EU International Partnership Commissioner Jozef Sikela in Brussels.
Hon. Kabuswe emphasized Zambia’s political stability, adherence to the rule of law, and peaceful environment as key factors in attracting European investors.
He highlighted the mining sector’s impressive $10 billion investment growth over the past three years and acknowledged the EU’s valuable contributions to artisanal mining, particularly in combating child labor and supporting efforts to formalize the sector.
Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing the Lobito Corridor project to boost regional trade and connectivity, as well as advancing skills development in the critical raw materials value chain.
Hon. Kabuswe advocated for increased scholarships through Zambia’s existing academies to build capacity in these crucial areas.
Ms. Kusobile Kamwandi, Head of Zambia’s Presidential Delivery Unit, reaffirmed the country’s dedication to the Lobito Corridor initiative.
She urged the EU to establish a Zambia Implementation Office for the corridor and expedite other collaborative projects to maximize their impact.
Commissioner Jozef Sikela expressed the EU’s continued commitment to Zambia, announcing plans to fast-track the Zambia-Tanzania interconnector project.
This initiative aims to address power shortages caused by drought, thereby improving the energy supply needed for sustainable development.
Additionally, Commissioner Sikela acknowledged Zambia’s pivotal role in the global green transition and pledged ongoing collaboration to enhance the raw materials value chain.
The meeting highlighted Zambia’s potential as a reliable partner for the EU in fostering sustainable development, advancing regional integration, and supporting the global energy transition.
With strengthened partnerships, Zambia aims to further unlock its economic potential while addressing pressing challenges in the mining and energy sectors.
