CABINET has given its approval for the deployment of defense and security personnel to address the growing problem of illegal mining activities, particularly those related to gold and other mineral commodities.
The government’s objective is to clamp down on this illicit activity and safeguard the country’s natural resources, recognising that illegal mining poses a significant threat to Zambia’s environment, economy and stability.
Cabinet noted a significant rise in illicit mining activities for various commodities such as gold, manganese, copper, sugillite, tin, lithium which are mostly carried out by artisanal and small scale miners.
According to Minister of Information Cornelius Mweetwa, illegal mining has been linked to a series of additional illegal activities, including the smuggling of minerals from Zambia, environmental pollution, and an influx of foreign nationals.
Mweetwa said it has also led to the exploitation of local people, as miners often pay them lower prices for their mineral commodities than the regulated international market prices.
He stated that if enacted, the Bill will counter illegal mining activities occurring in areas where gold and other minerals have been identified.
Mweetwa underscored the importance of formalising the operations of artisanal and small-scale miners by issuing mining licenses to local communities through the establishment of mining cooperatives.
“The identified areas where Defense and Security personnel will be deployed include Rufunsa, Kasempa, Mpika, Mumbwa, Lusangazi, Chisamba, Chibombo, Luano, Lumezi, Chadiza, and Vubwi, among others,” he disclosed.
Cabinet also approved the Cotton Bill of 2025 which aims to regulate Zambia’s cotton industry and enhance efficiency, transparency and competitiveness with a focus of fostering sustainable growth and increased profitability for cotton farmers, ginners and exporters.
Mweetwa noted that cabinet recognised that the Cotton Act of 2005 is not comprehensive enough to resolve the issues confronting the sector which could significantly hamper the growth and visibility of the country’s industry.
“We urgently need a more robust framework that promotes the welfare of ginners, producers, and other stakeholders in the cotton supply chain,” Mweetwa noted.
Additionally, Cabinet approved the publication and introduction of several other Bills during the current parliamentary session.
Cabinet approved the introduction of a Bill amending the Anti-Gender Based Violence Act of 2011 which seeks to clarify definitions of gender-based violence offenses, establish specific penalties for perpetrators, and strengthen cooperation between law enforcement, service providers, and prosecutors by ensuring that victims receive the support and justice they deserve.
Cabinet also endorsed the Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply Bill of 2025 which aims to promote and enhance the procurement and supply profession by continuing the existence of the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply under a new name.
This will redefine its functions, registering procurement and supply professionals, firms, and regulating their practice and professional conduct.
“The Bill seeks to repeal the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply Act of 2003, which is considered inadequate in regulating the profession, to ensure compliance with international best practices for procurement and supply professionals in Zambia,” added Mweetwa.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba July 4, 2025
