Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has announced the completion of works on the construction of Mumbwa Mineral Market Centre.
The development marks a major achievement in Government’s ongoing efforts to formalize, empower, and enhance the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector.
According to the Ministry, the facility has been fully connected to the National electricity Grid, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for all operational needs.
In a statement, Ministry’s Principal Public Relations Officer, Shamwinda Tembo said now that the construction works have been completed, the Centre has entered its final administrative and logistical preparations ahead of its official opening.
He said thereafter, the Centre will begin purchasing processed gold directly from artisanal and small-scale miners in the region.
“The Ministry is currently finalizing the deployment of specialized officers who will manage the Centre’s operations”
“ These officers will be responsible for identifying and verifying the mineral content of gold brought in for sale—ensuring transparency, accuracy, and fair value for miners,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mr. Tembo reported progress on the construction of the Rufunsa Mineral Market Centre, stating that, prefabricated materials have already been procured.
He explained that the project forms part of the broader national initiative to establish mineral market centers across the country.
Construction of the two Mineral Market Centres commenced in April and May 2024 respectively.
“This is aimed at providing artisanal and small-scale miners with structured, transparent, and dependable marketplaces,” he stressed..
Mr. Tembo stated that the centres are expected to enhance miners’ earnings, promote sector formalization, and increase the contribution of artisanal and small-scale mining to the national economy.
