Smart Zambia Targets All Mining Firms

By Mariah Kalunga

Smart Zambia Institute says 78 mining companies across the country have been registered on the Local Content Access System.

The registration follows the signing of Statutory Instrument Number 68 in August last year, which requires a greater share of mining sector procurement to be awarded to Zambian-owned businesses.

In an interview with ZNBC News, Smart Zambia Institute National Coordinator PERCY CHINYAMA said companies registered on the system include Kansanshi Mine, Konkola Copper Mine, Lumwana Mine and Mopani Copper Mine, among others.

Mr. CHINYAMA said the Institute plans to roll out the system to all mining companies as part of efforts to support Zambia’s target of producing three million metric tonnes of copper annually.

He said the system tracks procurement plans and monitors the proportion of contracts awarded to local suppliers to ensure Zambian businesses receive a greater share of available opportunities.

Mr. CHINYAMA added that compliance with Statutory Instrument Number 68 is a legal requirement for all mining companies, warning that firms which fail to comply risk facing penalties.