Hichilema Affirms Equal Support for Artisanal Miners, Prioritizing Safety and Legality

LUSAKA – President Hakainde Hichilema has pledged comprehensive government support for Zambia’s artisanal and small-scale miners, underscoring that their welfare is equally as important as that of major corporations like First Quantum Minerals (FQM). The President made these remarks during the launch of the Kansanshi Mine S3 Expansion Project.

President Hichilema emphasized that small-scale mining is a rightful domain for Zambians and must be conducted safely and within legal frameworks. He strongly condemned dangerous mining practices, asserting that no young person should perish in unsafe "rat tunnels."

Issuing a firm directive to Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe, President Hichilema stressed the imperative to prioritize artisanal and small-scale miners. He reiterated that small-scale mining operations must be exclusively reserved for Zambian citizens.

"Our small-scale miners, Bally loves you and we are thinking about you," President Hichilema stated, appealing directly to the community. "We must transform illegal miners into legal miners, no more deaths in unsafe mining."

The Head of State further instructed that young people be empowered to mine legally and gain access to reliable markets for their gold. He also urged for these miners to be paid fairly, receiving "something decent for their hard work."

In a significant announcement, President Hichilema confirmed a dedicated allocation for artisanal and small-scale mining within the upcoming national budget. "I have instructed the Minister of Finance [Situmbeko Musokotwane] to include in the budget line for the 2026 national budget to support artisanal and small-scale miners," he added.

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