Opposition Christian Democratic Party (CDP) President Danny Pule says once he forms government, his party will not issue large-scale exploration or mining licences to foreign investors unless they partner with Zambians, as part of efforts to increase local participation in the mining sector.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kitwe Wednesday, Professor Pule says his government will abolish tax incentives for foreign mining companies, arguing that the incentives cost Zambia substantial revenue each year.
He says the revenue recovered from scrapping the incentives would be redirected towards national development.
Professor Pule says the funds will also be used to build more classrooms to reduce congestion in schools and improve road and education infrastructure.
He has identified the Solwezi–Kalumbila–Kasempa–Kaoma–Mongu Road as a priority project, saying the route has received inadequate attention despite increased mining activity in North-Western Province.
On education, Professor Pule says his government would maintain the free education policy and establish universities in all provinces.
He adds that the party will build on policies introduced during the Patriotic Front administration by expanding the establishment of universities beyond major urban centres.
By Respite Kaoma
