By John Chola

In a historic move to transform the nation’s mining landscape, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development is set to convene the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Conference today and tomorrow at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.

The high-level gathering, held under the theme “Unlocking ASM Potential for Inclusive and Sustainable Development,” follows a direct directive from President Hakainde Hichilema to the Minister of Mines, Mr. Paul Kabuswe during the official launch of Kansanshi’s S3 on August 19.

The President’s instruction was clear: to formalise the long-overlooked and often illegal artisanal mining sector and chart a new path that allows the nation to finally reap the benefits of its vast mineral wealth.

The conference represents a pivotal shift in government policy, moving from ad-hoc regulation to a structured, empowered, and inclusive approach for thousands of small-scale miners.

For decades, artisanal mining has been characterised by informality, safety hazards, and lost national revenue.

This conference is the first major step in turning this sector from a challenge into a major economic opportunity.

Minister Paul Kabuswe stated that the event will tackle the sector’s most pressing issues head-on.

“This is not merely a talk-shop. This conference is about action. We are here to address the real challenges our miners face—from the complexities of formalisation and access to financing, to combating illegal mining activities and ensuring environmental sustainability. We will work on concrete interventions to build a brighter, more secure future for everyone in the value chain,” he affirmed.

The Ministry has outlined that key objectives for the two-day dialogue include:

· Developing clear, accessible pathways for artisanal miners to formalise their operations.

· Strategizing on how to integrate and support small-scale miners within the national economy.

· Formulating robust measures to curb illegal mining and enhance security in mining areas.

· Promoting safe, environmentally responsible mining practices.

The event is to be officially opened by President Hichilema, underscoring the immense importance his administration places on integrating the ASM sector into the mainstream economy as a driver for job creation and rural development.

Stakeholders from across the mining sector, including representatives from artisanal miner associations, traditional leaders, mining experts, financiers, and international partners, are expected to attend the crucial dialogue.

The nation will be watching as the dialogue starts today, anticipating the outcomes that promise to unlock the potential of a sector long operating in the shadows and empower it to become a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive development for Zambia.