Zambia has launched its first Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Conference in Lusaka, signaling a determined push to reform a sector critical to millions of livelihoods yet hindered by unsafe practices and unregulated trade.

President Hakainde Hichilema, addressing a diverse group of miners, policymakers, and industry leaders on Tuesday, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring small-scale miners fairly benefit from the nation’s vast mineral resources under the conference theme, “Unlocking ASM Potential for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.”

The gathering aims to confront entrenched challenges in ASM, which employs over 1 million Zambians and drives significant production of copper, gold, and gemstones. Hichilema emphasized the need to formalize the sector, highlighting that approximately 1,400 licenses have been issued to small-scale miners to curb illegal operations. “A structured small-scale mining sector can significantly boost our economy,” he stated. “Legalizing operations through licenses is key to bringing order and fairness to this vital industry.”

Hichilema further underscored the importance of transparent licensing, issuing a stern warning against corruption among officials. He also criticized “briefcase buyers”—intermediaries who exploit miners with unfairly low prices—and advocated for a formalized mineral trade to secure equitable market access.

To inform these reforms, Zambia recently sent a delegation to Ghana and Tanzania to study their successful approaches to regulating ASM, which have enhanced safety and profitability. Safety and environmental concerns were central to the discussions. Hichilema raised alarms over hazardous mining conditions that have led to fatalities and condemned the use of mercury in gold processing, which contaminates water sources and endangers communities. The government plans to establish processing facilities to promote safer, environmentally friendly practices, he announced.

The ASM sector faces obstacles like limited access to capital, outdated equipment, and weak regulatory oversight. Conference attendees explored solutions such as improved training, affordable technology, and integration into formal markets. As Africa’s second-largest copper producer, Zambia views ASM as a cornerstone for economic inclusion, particularly in rural areas.