National Mineral Resources Development Policy (MRDP)

The National Mineral Resources Development Policy (2022) is designed to guide the development of strategies and programmes over a 10-year period towards building a sustainable, diversified and growth-centred mining sector. 

The Policy identifies 12 objectives and sets out the policy measures required to meet the objectives, as highlighted below:

• The Policy sets out measures to strengthen geological mapping and mineral exploration, aiming to open new areas for commercial mining and attract both domestic and foreign investment. 
• It introduces reforms to enhance efficiency, transparency and accountability in mining licence administration, including the adoption of digital systems and improved institutional capacity. 
• It places strong emphasis on developing the Artisanal and Small‑scale Mining (ASM) sub‑sector by promoting formalisation, access to markets, capital and technology, and encouraging cooperative structures – particularly in gold, manganese, gemstones and industrial minerals. 
• It promotes responsible environmental management, health and safety standards in mining operations. 
• It emphasises the importance of value addition and processing within Zambia to boost jobs and industrial diversification. 
• Across the mineral value chain, the Policy includes measures to increase Zambian ownership and participation, improve skills development, strengthen research and development, and ensure that gender, youth, disability and public health considerations are fully integrated into sector activities.

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