Government to Roll Out Small Scale Mining Fund

By Nyambe Nalishebo Government is set to boost mining production and meet national productivity targets with the implementation of the Small Scale Mining Fund to empower Artisanal and Small‑Scale Miners nationwide. Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta said government is finalizing regulations to activate the Fund, a facility created to build capacity and increase output in the sector. Dr. Kabeta told ZNBC News the empowerment fund will be central to strengthening artisanal and small‑scale mining over the next five years. He explained that guidelines developed during the last sitting of Parliament will be enacted through a Statutory Instrument to ensure transparent, merit‑based support and clear qualification criteria for applicants. Dr. Kabeta said the first phase will target established artisanal miners with proven growth potential. Meanwhile, Association of Zambian Women in Mining President Namakau Kaingu has urged government to fast‑track implementation of mining policies and deliver tangible support to small‑scale miners in President Hakainde Hichilema’s second term. Ms. Kaingu said miners are waiting for action following years of reforms under the New Dawn government.