Zambia’s defence ministry official, Haamaundu, calls for enhanced security to safeguard Africa’s mineral resources

Zambia’s Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary, Maambo Haamaundu, has urged African nations to bolster security measures to protect their mineral resources, as global demand for critical minerals continues to rise.

Haamaundu stressed that while critical minerals present significant economic opportunities, they also have the potential to spark conflict and instability if not carefully managed.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Tanzania National Defence College in Lusaka, Haamaundu emphasized the importance of creating secure environments for sustainable mining practices across the continent.

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“The competition for critical minerals is very high, which presents great economic prospects. However, these resources can also be a source of conflict and instability. That is why enhancing security is essential,” he said.

Haamaundu also highlighted the need for regional cooperation, urging Zambia and Tanzania to work together in safeguarding and capitalizing on their shared mineral wealth.

“Our two countries are richly endowed with critical minerals. We must collaborate and set an example of how such resources can be harnessed to drive economic development and support sustainable energy and technology solutions,” Haamaundu added.

The Tanzanian delegation, led by Colonel Khaji Mtengela, is in Zambia on a benchmarking tour.

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