President Hakainde Hichilema Opens Zambia’s First ASM Conference

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially opened Zambia’s inaugural Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Conference in Lusaka, stressing the importance of legal, safe, and structured mining as a driver of national development.

He urged artisanal and small-scale miners to transition into formalised operations so they can contribute to job creation, business opportunities and treasury reserves. Describing the gathering as a landmark event, Hichilema noted that artisanal mining, despite its huge importance, has long been excluded from policy discussions.

“Zambia is endowed with various minerals of high economic value, and these minerals should be legally exploited by our citizens and sold to formal, structured markets. There must be no substitute to this methodical way of doing things in every sector,” he said.

The President emphasised that mining must follow the pillars of equality, safety, formal trade, and security, warning that “this government will not allow any mining area to become a violent spot.”

On corruption, Hichilema condemned the long-standing irregularities in the issuance of mining licences, assuring delegates of a fair and accountable regime: “There must be an efficient system, devoid of any corruption, in the issuance of licences to artisanal and small-scale miners across the country.”

Linking the conference to Zambia’s broader economic transformation agenda, Hichilema reaffirmed that mining remains the backbone of the economy. He called on stakeholders to share ideas on professionalising the ASM industry and strengthening safe practices. “We are determined and committed to making lives better, so let’s all get involved,” he said.

Industry experts, economists and civil society groups praised Hichilema’s stance, pledging to collaborate on strategies that will help transform artisanal mining into a driver of inclusive growth and sustainable development.