GOVERNMENT has issued more than 90 Artisanal Mining Offer Letters to cooperatives in Mufumbwe and Kasempa districts as part of the efforts to empower local communities to benefit from the region’s vast mineral resources.
The move, spearheaded by the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development, is in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to promote safe, secure and community led mining practices across the country.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony in Mufumbwe, Mines and Mineral Development Minister Paul Kabuswe said the issuance of the offer letters marks a significant step towards formalising small scale mining and enhancing local participation in the sector.
The cooperatives, which include both youth and women led groups, will now undergo intensive training on responsible and safe mining practices.
According to a statement issued by North Western Province principal public relations officer Gloria Kinkolenge, upon successful completion, the miners will be eligible for full mining licenses.
Kinkolenge stated that the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development will also provide necessary support to the cooperatives, including the provision of mining equipment to improve productivity and safety in their operations.
To promote transparency in mineral trade, state mining investment company ZCCM-IH has been engaged to facilitate the formal gold buying process in the two districts, ensuring traceability and fair market value for locally mined gold.
The event was attended by several high ranking officials, including North Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, Naomi Tetamashimba, Permanent Secretary for Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Subeta Mutelo, Mufumbwe Member of Parliament, Elliot Kamondo and various traditional leaders and stakeholders.
North Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi commended the initiative, noting that it will contribute to poverty reduction and sustainable economic development in the region.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, July 31, 2025
