Minister of Mines inaugurates MRC Board to strengthen mining regulation

Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe has inaugurated nine board members of the Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC), tasking them with overseeing licensing, regulating legal mining and strengthening accountability in the sector.

Speaking at the induction ceremony in Lusaka, Mr Kabuswe urged the new board to promote responsible mining practices, enforce compliance with mining laws and ensure the sector continues to contribute to economic growth, employment and foreign exchange earnings.

According to ZANIS, the Minister described mining as the backbone of Zambia's economy and said the appointed members had been entrusted with ensuring the country's mineral resources are managed prudently for present and future generations.

"The mining sector is rapidly evolving due to global market dynamics, technological advancements and increasing demands for transparency and good governance. The Commission's role in regulating mining activities is therefore strategic and critical to national development," Mr Kabuswe said.

The Minister reaffirmed government's commitment to maintaining a stable, predictable and investor-friendly policy environment aimed at positioning Zambia as a competitive global mining destination.

MRC Board Chairperson Matongo Matamwandi said the board would serve with integrity, diligence and accountability, focusing on strategic oversight and policy direction while upholding corporate governance and ethical standards. He said members were committed to strengthening institutional systems, improving compliance and enhancing regulatory frameworks to promote investor confidence and stability.

MRC Director General Tomliuson Hara highlighted the importance of collaboration among government, industry players and cooperating partners, noting that open dialogue and partnerships were key to delivering the Commission's mandate.

Mr Hara said the incoming board brought fresh perspectives, diverse expertise and strengthened oversight, and would play a critical role in providing strategic leadership and ensuring accountability in the management of the Commission. He reaffirmed management's commitment to working with the board to strengthen regulatory frameworks, promote compliance and ensure Zambia derives maximum value from its mineral wealth.