By MOFFAT CHAZINGWA –
MINES, Energy and Water Development Minister Christopher Yaluma has assured mining firms in the country of Government’s  support.
Mr Yaluma said Government would continue to provide sustainable and conducive environment for mining companies to support the growth of the sector in the country.
He said it was for this reason that the Government had come up with measures such as the adjustment of the mineral royalty tax and others aimed at supporting the mining sector.

. Yaluma

Mr Yaluma said this in Kitwe yesterday when he graced the opening of a two-day Mining Copperbelt Trade Expo and Conference held at Misty Gardens.
“Government remains resolved to continue to provide sustainable and conducive environment for mining companies to support the growth of the sector in the country.
“It is for this reason that Government has come up with measures to support the mining sector among them are the recent revision of the mineral royalty tax regime and the expanding of roads to ease transportation of mining equipment and materials,” Mr Yaluma said.
Mr Yaluma said Government through his ministry was currently in the process of computerising the issuance of mining licenses and mapping the geological parts of the country a move aimed at consolidating the growth of the sector.
The minister implored small-scale mining companies to take advantage of the conducive business environment being created by the Government to grow their business.
This would help create employment for local people in line with the Government’s policy.
Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) chief finance officer John Chiwele thanked Government for its support towards the growth of the mining sector as evidenced by the progressive decision to revise the mineral royalty tax.
Mr Chiwele said the continued investment by MCM in modern mining technology such as the acid plant in Mufulira was testimony of the company’s commitment to long term investment in the country.