Zambia's Mining Sector headed in right direction – Beltz Mining Director
Beltz Mining Limited Director Nkandu Beltz has described Zambia’s mining sector as being on the right path, despite ongoing challenges and complexities on the ground.
Speaking in an interview, Ms. Beltz has acknowledged that while operating in the country presents several hurdles, significant progress is being made particularly noticeable to those observing Zambia’s development from both within and outside.
“It hasn’t been easy. We've had a few issues recently, but that does not negate the progress achieved so far. I believe we are heading in the right direction,” she said.
Ms. Beltz has commended the government’s efforts in managing the surge of interest in mineral discoveries, especially given that many of these deposits are now accessible at or near the surface, leading to a rush in mining activities particularly by artisanal miners.
“People are rushing because they are hungry. They want to feed their children. It’s a tough situation, but the government is taking the right steps by prioritizing safety and security.”
She has stressed the importance of ensuring that Zambia’s mineral wealth is not only extracted responsibly but also made commercially viable to support job creation and long-term sustainability.
“This will not be fixed in a week or two months, but with patience, we can build something tangible and meaningful for our people.”
On legal compliance, Ms. Beltz has urged aspiring miners to follow the law and adhere to proper procedures, noting that doing so not only ensures protection from legal trouble but also enables access to institutional support.
She has emphasized the need for proper planning, noting that mining is capital-intensive, and requires knowledge, technical expertise, and financial readiness.
“Zambia has so many qualified geologists who can walk you through the process from identifying areas of interest, to submitting applications, to fulfilling requirements like area charges and pegging certificates. Everything can be learned, and having the right team is critical.”
Ms. Beltz said she surrounds herself with skilled professionals and maintains a strong understanding of the sector’s fundamentals.
“You don’t have to be a geologist, but you must be well-advised and ensure the right skills are on the table.”
Ms. Beltz's remarks come at a time when Zambia is striving to formalize and modernize its mining industry to maximize national benefit, particularly in the wake of increased global demand for critical minerals.
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