Today, President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the 2025 Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Conference at Mulungushi Conference Center under the theme ‘Unlocking ASM Potential for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.’ The event highlighted the Government’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices and formalising the sector.
President Hichilema reaffirmed that no large, medium, or small-scale miner will be allowed to introduce insecurity or criminals into mining areas such as the Kikonge Gold Mine or any other site. He urged all miners to adhere to formal trading channels, warning that attempts to smuggle gold through unconventional means, including using Ukwa bags at airports, are illegal and will attract legal consequences, including imprisonment.
The President emphasized that all stakeholders should utilize formal channels for gold transactions. He also clarified that claims suggesting the Government has relinquished tax revenue to mining entities are inaccurate. The administration maintains that illegal mining activities will be addressed, ensuring the sector operates within the law and promotes a secure and transparent environment that benefits miners and the country.
Since taking office in 2021, the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government has issued over 1,400 small-scale mining licences. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to formalise the sector, promote responsible mining practices, and support small-scale miners.
Formalisation aims to promote economic growth, enhance revenue collection, improve safety standards, and ensure environmental sustainability. By creating a regulated framework, the Government seeks to provide a secure environment for mining activities that contributes to national development and economic growth.
President Hichilema’s statements at the ASM Conference underline the administration’s commitment to transforming the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. The formalisation efforts and focus on responsible mining are expected to strengthen the economy, increase transparency, and benefit both miners and the wider nation.