Manufacturers to benefit from $5 billion mines spending

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), Private Entrepreneurship Programme (PEP) Zambia and the Chambers of Mines of Zambia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see local manufacturers benefit from the US$5 billion mining companies spend annually on international supplies.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka today, ZAM Member Roseta Chabala says the move will help local manufacturers to boost the manufacturing sector.

Ms Chabala states that with the help of the Chambers of Mines and the Private Entrepreneurship Programme, all the linkages in the business industry will be a thing of the past.

She says the onus is on the Association to ensure that all the members benefit from the deal in a bid to promote local content.

Ms Chabala has since made an assurance that the Zambia Association of Manufacturers will ensure that all local manufacturers who will be supplying to the mines produce quality goods and services.

And Chambers of Mines of Zambia Chief Executive Officer Maureen Dlamini says the chamber is concerned that local manufacturers are not benefiting from the mines.

Ms Dlamini says the move is a step in the right direction as it will help local manufacturers to supply goods to the mining companies which in turn will boost the country’s economy.

Speaking at the same event, Private Entrepreneurship Programme (PEP) Zambia Programme Manager Bayo Akindeinde says his organization will continue to initiate programs aimed at addressing business linkages.

Mr. Akindeinde says it is important that small businesses are given an opportunity to deal with bigger businesses in a bid to address some of their challenges.