03/06/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) constitutes the Licensing committee to enhance transparency, efficiency and investment in the mining sector.
Lusaka, June 3, 2026 – The Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) has officially constituted the Licensing Committee (LC) following the induction of the MRC Board of Commissioners, marking a significant step towards strengthening the administration, regulation and oversight of mining and non-mining rights in Zambia.
The Minerals Regulation Commission was established by an Act of Parliament, specifically the Minerals Regulation Commission Act No. 14 of 2024, to regulate and monitor the development and management of minerals resource in the Zambia.
The Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) is Zambia’s independent statutory body established to regulate, monitor, and oversee the development and management of mineral resources under the Minerals Regulation Commission Act, 2024.
Established under the Minerals Regulation Commission Act, No. 14 of 2024, the Licensing Committee has a mandate to support the Commission in ensuring transparent, efficient and accountable management of the country's mineral resources.
The formation of the Committee represents a major milestone in the Commission's efforts to streamline licensing processes, enhance regulatory compliance and strengthen governance within the mining sector.
The Committee will play a central role in the evaluation and administration of applications for mining and non-mining rights. It will also support the Commission's commitment to promoting fairness, consistency and adherence to the law in the regulation of mining activities across the country.
In addition, the Committee will provide technical, administrative and professional recommendations to the Board of Commissioners on matters relating to the granting, renewal, suspension, amendment and cancellation of mineral rights.
The Licensing Committee comprises members drawn from key stakeholders, including Government institutions, industry representatives and community interests. Collectively, the members bring various expertise, ensuring balanced, informed and evidence-based decision-making.
Among its key functions, the Committee will:
• Review and evaluate applications for mining and non-mining rights;
• Determine whether to grant, renew or reject applications in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory standards;
• Monitor compliance by rights holders with statutory and license obligations;
• Recommend the suspension, termination or cancellation of rights where breaches of legal or regulatory requirements occur;
• Assess applications for amendments to the terms and conditions of existing rights; and
• Provide expert technical and administrative advice to the Board on matters falling within its mandate under the MRC Act.
The formation of the Licencing Committee is expected to improve investor confidence, enhance efficiencies in procedures and processes and increase local and foreign investment in Zambia's mining sector. An efficient, predictable and transparent licensing regime is a key factor in attracting responsible investment and supporting the growth of the mining industry.
The constitution of the Licencing Committee underscores the Government's commitment to responsible mineral resource governance and reflects Zambia's determination to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and social development.
As Zambia pursues its ambitious target of increasing copper production to three million metric tonnes by 2031, the Commission remains committed to creating an efficient and credible regulatory framework that supports investment, promotes compliance and maximises the benefits of the country's mineral wealth for present and future generations.
Issued by:
Mr. Matongo Matamwandi
Board Chairperson
Minerals Regulation Commission
