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Luapula Provincial Administration has welcomed the Mining Appeals Tribunalβs stakeholder consultation on the proposed Mining Appeals (Tribunal) Rules, 2026, saying the reforms will strengthen mining governance and promote sustainable development.
Provincial Assistant Secretary John Mwasha, speaking on behalf of Permanent Secretary Prudence Chinama-Kangwa in Mansa, noted that the Tribunalβs work comes at an important time as Luapula is increasingly emerging as a mining province.
Mr Mwasha highlighted that the province has experienced illegal mining, particularly manganese mining, which has raised environmental concerns.
He emphasised that regularizing mining activities will promote legal and sustainable mining, increase Government revenue and ensure host communities benefit from mineral resources.
Mr Mwasha stressed that mining should contribute to economic development rather than leave mineral-rich communities without tangible benefits.
Meanwhile, Mining Appeals Tribunal Vice Chairperson Douglas Tambulukani explained that the proposed 2026 Rules are aimed at ensuring mining disputes are resolved fairly, efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
Mr Tambulukani outlined that the Rules introduce clear timelines for appeals, strengthen the Registrarβs case-management role and provide for electronic filing and virtual hearings once the necessary infrastructure is in place.
He observed that the Rules, established under the Minerals Regulation Commission Act No. 14 of 2024, will also promote transparency through reasoned decisions, standardised forms and clear procedures.
Mr Tambulukani pointed out that an efficient dispute-resolution mechanism is critical to investor confidence and supports Governmentβs strategic objective of increasing copper production to three million metric tonnes annually.
The stakeholder consultation brings together Government institutions, mining industry representatives, civil society, mining associations and other stakeholders to provide input on the proposed Rules.
By: Joseph chisupa
