By 
President Hakainde Hichilema has unveiled plans for a US$100 million investment to map Zambia’s mineral resources using modern technology.
This initiative aims to tackle illegal mining activities and ensure that mining licenses are appropriately issued to qualified individuals, including Zambians.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Phase 2 Maamba Collieries 300 Megawatts expansion project in Sinazongwe District, Southern Province, on Tuesday, Hichilema emphasized the importance of this investment.
“I know Mamba Collieries has been given a Lithium exploration licence but before that I want to inform you that we are making an investment in mineral exploration US$100 million to map the country’s mineral resources using modern technology and we might tell you where that lithium is before you even start.
“I have directed the Minister of Mines, Minister of Green Economy to ensure that there is no illegal mining activities in the country and the environment is well protected,” he said.
The President stressed the need for collaborative efforts to manage resources effectively and promote safe mining practices.
“We must be thinking ahead to the next phase of power generation, focusing on clean coal technologies. Address climate change by investing in clean coal technologies,” he stated.
Hichilema also outlined the government’s vision to achieve 10,000 megawatts of power from various sources, such as solar and geothermal energy, in the future.
Read More: Maamba Collieries secures financing for $400 million power plant expansion
He underscored the need for joint ventures across all sectors of the economy, starting with energy, to address national energy insecurity.
The Maamba Collieries expansion project, according to Hichilema, represents significant progress towards energy security.
“This project must benefit the local people through employment. All the skills required should be gotten from here as long as they are available and if not the company should outsource as it is going to help the company to operate effectively,” he said.
The President highlighted the importance of responsible mining practices, partnership, and government support for licensed mining activities.
The expansion project is expected to support ZESCO’s power supply needs for the next 20 years and provide substantial local employment opportunities.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments