GOVERNMENT says it has launched a renewed drive to strengthen mining legislation, improve transparency in the tender process and ensure the country benefits fully from its mineral wealth.
Mines and Mining Development deputy minister Caleb Makwiranzou said the initiative came at a time when the country was in the process of reforming key mining laws. He was speaking at a capacity-building workshop on mining legislation, mining agreements and tender processes in Victoria Falls on Saturday.
The training, funded by the African Legal Support Facility, was initiated by the Finance ministry to enhance government's capacity in negotiating and managing contracts in the mining and petroleum sectors.
Makwiranzou said major legal reforms were underway, including amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act, the Gold Trade Act and the Precious Stones Trade Act.
“These laws have become outdated and no longer respond to modern developments such as technological advances and the land reform programme. Mining disputes have worryingly increased in recent years,” he said.
Makwiranzou said government was changing policy to ensure it holds equity in major mining projects in a bid to secure a fair share of profits for the nation.
“The government is moving towards a policy where it must have a share in major mining projects,” he said.
Makwiranzou stressed the importance of transparent tender processes, saying only capable investors with real value to offer should be awarded mining contracts.
- Govt moves to tighten mining laws, tenders
