President Hakainde Hichilema says the government has, in the last three years, attracted over five billion United States dollars’ worth of investment in the mining sector.
He says this follows various interventions put in place by the government, which have led to the reviving of the mining sector.
President Hichilema has also revealed that the government has an Aerial Geophysical Survey, which will not only enhance mineral exploration but is also expected to eliminate illegal mining.
The President said this in a speech read on his behalf by Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati during the groundbreaking ceremony of the launch of the Timbuktoo Minetech Hub at the National Institute for Science and Industrial Research (NISIR) in Lusaka.
Mr Hichilema added that the Minetech Hub will therefore contribute to the realisation of the government’s vision of producing three million tons of Copper in 10 years.
“Beyond the stabilisation of the Mining Sector, the government through the Ministry of Technology and Science has also done critical work to create an enabling environment that will foster creativity and entrepreneurship by improving digital infrastructure and internet speed,” He disclosed.
Speaking at the same event, United Nations Resident Coordinator, Beatrice Mutali acknowledged that Zambia has been a prominent player in the global mining landscape, with abundant mineral resources.
She stated that it is therefore befitting for the country to host the mining technology hub, which will ensure that the mining industry remains competitive and relevant by embracing technological advancements and fostering a culture of innovation.
She further explained that the Timbuktoo initiative, a UNDP flagship programme, aims to bring public and private capital together to support Africa’s innovation ecosystem
She revealed that the initiative has an ambitious target to raise 1 billion US Dollars, support 10,000 startups, scale 1,000 startups, impact 100 million livelihoods, and create a value of 10 billion US Dollars over 10 years.
“The hub will support promising startups by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to leverage technology for optimized mining operations, enhanced safety standards, and sustainable practices that transform raw ores into valuable finished products while minimizing environmental impact,” Ms Mutali said.
Ms Mutali noted that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Africa has so far established 10 Timbuktoo hubs across Africa. The Zambian MineTech Hub is the third to be launched, following the Fintech and HealthTech Hubs in Nigeria and Rwanda, respectively.
NISIR Board Chairperson, Kabwe Musonda stated that the development is proof of the government’s commitment to ensuring that economic and developmental decisions are based on scientific research and up to date technologies.
Ms Musonda also thanked President Hichilema for his support and dedication towards enhancing research and development in the country.
