Government Rolls Out Phase Three of Artisanal Miner Training as Formalisation Push Gains Momentum

MPIKA – The government has launched the third phase of its nationwide capacity-building programme for artisanal and small-scale gold miners, marking another milestone in efforts to formalise the sector and improve mining standards across the country.

The latest training session, held in Mpika District, has brought together miners from eight provincesCentral, Copperbelt, Eastern, Muchinga, North-Western, Western, Southern and Lusaka as government expands its support to unregulated mining communities.

Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary Reverend Mathews Chilekwa delivered the keynote address on behalf of Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, who described the programme as a critical pillar of the New Dawn Administration’s strategy to transform artisanal mining into a safer, more productive, and economically empowering industry.

Formalisation at the Centre of Reform

Dr. Kabeta noted that the initiative builds on the success of the previous phases, which saw more than 400 cooperatives trained and issued with licences.
This third phase targets an additional 400 cooperatives, underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding legal participation in the mining sector.

He added that the programme is anchored on the recently enacted Geological and Minerals Development Act No. 2 of 2025, which introduces several reforms including:

• The creation of an Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Department
• Establishment of a dedicated ASM Fund to help miners access capital
• Strengthened regulatory oversight to prevent unsafe and illegal mining

Addressing Past Tragedies

Dr. Kabeta said the training is a deliberate response to past disasters linked to unsafe and informal mining practices, stressing that improved skills and compliance are essential to preventing future loss of life.

“The goal is to ensure that artisanal miners operate safely, sustainably and within the law, while benefiting their communities,” he said.

Curriculum Designed for Safety and Growth

Participants will undergo specialised instruction in:

• Safe and responsible mining methods
• Environmental and land rehabilitation practices
• Basic business and financial management
• Community benefit-sharing models

Upon completion, miners will receive certificates and formal mining licences, granting them legal recognition to operate and contribute to the country’s mineral economy.

A Boost for Local Economic Empowerment

The government says the training programme is part of a broader agenda to integrate artisanal miners into the formal economy, increase gold production, and enhance local participation in Zambia’s mineral wealth.

With Phase Three officially underway, authorities say more regions will soon be incorporated as the artisanal mining reform programme continues to scale nationwide.