LUSAKA, June 22 (Xinhua) -- A conference discussing solutions to challenges faced in Zambia's extractive industries opened in Zambia Thursday with the government promising to provide a conducive environment for mining operations.
Held under the theme "Mining and Energy Development in Zambia-Increasing Economic Activities," the 7th Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition, opened in Lusaka with over 200 delegates.
Inonge Wina, the Zambian vice-president who officially opened the conference, said the government was providing policy guidelines to spur the growth of the mining industry.
She said government was mindful of the important role played by the mining industry as it accounts for about 12 percent of the country's GDP and over 78 percent of total exports.
The government, she said, would do everything possible to ensure a stable environment for the mining industry as it was key to the country's economic development.
Christopher Yaluma, Minister of Mines, said mining firms should take a keen interest in equipping local people with the necessary skills as it was vital to the sustainable operations of the mines.
Zambia was seeking investment in the mining sector that will make a difference to the lives of citizens, he added.
Nathan Chishimba, the president of the Zambia Chamber of Mines, an association of foreign mining firms operating in the country, emphasized the need for the government to continue providing a conducive environment for mining firms to remain productive.
