The Government of Zambia has formally established the Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC), marking the most significant restructuring of the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development in recent years.
In a statement, Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Principal Public Relations Manager Shamwinda Tembo said the new Commission now backed by an Act of Parliament will operate as an independent statutory body, taking over key regulatory functions previously housed within the Ministry. It will be headed by a Director General and staffed by more than 200 personnel to enhance efficiency and strengthen oversight.
The MRC will integrate the Mine Safety Department and the Cadastre Department, giving it full authority over the administration of mining rights as well as the regulation of safety, health, and environmental standards in the sector.
As part of the wider restructuring, the Ministry has also introduced two new specialized departments: the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Department and the Large-Scale Mining and Mineral Investment Promotion Department. These will operate alongside the existing Geological Survey Department, with the Ministry planning to decentralize operations through regional offices across the country to improve service delivery.
To ensure a smooth rollout, office space and equipment for the Commission have already been secured. Officials say the restructuring is a critical step toward strengthening mineral governance and supporting the sustainable growth of Zambia’s mining industry.
By Rachel Mumba
