Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, has called on big mining companies in the country to partner with licensed small-scale miners and engage them to source minerals on their behalf.
Mr Kabuswe said this would not only benefit both parties but would also ease the process of formalisation of artisanal and small-scale mining for the government.
He explained that through partnerships with established companies, small scale miners will have access to capital and resources such as equipment.
The minister was speaking during the Inaugural Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Conference held in Lusaka under the theme “Unlocking AS Potential for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.”
Mr Kabuswe stated that the artisanal and small-scale mining sector has great potential to provide thousands of jobs, adding that the government therefore is focused on ensuring that this is actualised
-ZANIS