The National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) has announced a strategic shift in its investment focus toward mineral value addition, with the goal of stimulating national development, enhancing member returns, and ensuring that Zambia reaps greater rewards from its abundant natural resources.
In a statement, NAPSA Director General Muyangwa Muyangwa highlighted the Authority’s commitment to prioritizing investments in local mineral processing and manufacturing. This shift aims to elevate Zambia beyond the traditional practice of exporting raw minerals.
“For too long, Zambia has remained at the bottom of the mining value chain,” Mr. Muyangwa remarked. “The future lies in producing finished products—this is where real value is created, and this is what will secure sustainable benefits for the country and our members.”
To facilitate this vision, NAPSA invites proposals from experts and entrepreneurs in the mining and manufacturing sectors to establish ventures that add value to minerals such as copper, gold, and manganese. The initiative aims to produce export-ready goods, including electrical wires and jewellery.
Mr. Muyangwa further emphasized the initiative’s potential to generate both economic and social impact by creating employment opportunities and formalizing artisanal mining. “More jobs mean more contributors to the pension scheme, and a stronger local economy,” he stated.
Under this model, formal processing plants will source minerals from small-scale miners, promoting responsible and regulated mining while supporting rural livelihoods.
Additionally, Mr. Muyangwa noted that Zambia stands to gain from increased foreign exchange earnings and enhanced economic stability by exporting value-added products. This approach will contribute to stabilizing the Kwacha and growing national reserves.
“This marks a turning point in our nation’s approach to mineral wealth. Since the ZCCM era, most mining profits have left our borders. Through this initiative, we aim to retain value locally and empower Zambians through inclusive economic growth,” he concluded.
NAPSA reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with both government and the private sector and encourages qualified stakeholders to submit proposals that align with its transformative agenda.
