Zambia needs skilled manpower in mining – Yaluma

Mines, Energy and Water Development Minister Christopher Yaluma has observed that Zambia requires skilled manpower if the mining sector is to remain competitive.

Mr. Yaluma says this means the country needs to have a pool of well trained, exposed and experienced professionals in the mining sector if it is to continue to contribute to the country’s sustainable economic growth.

He notes that this is why government takes the challenge of the shortage of skilled manpower very seriously.

Speaking this morning at the official launch of the first ever Zambia Mining for Development Alumni (ZAM4D) in Lusaka, Mr. Yaluma has stated that government has to this effect embarked on the review of the Education Curriculum of Universities, Colleges and Trade Training Institutions to meet the needs of the mining sector.

He says government is also encouraging mining and exploring companies to develop extensive skills development with such education institutions.

The Zambia Mining for Development Alumni has been launched under the theme ‘Partnering to harness mineral wealth for enhanced social development In Zambia’.

Speaking at the same launch Australian Embassy representative whose country’s government funds the IM4DC, Richard Slattery observed that his country’s programme offers significant opportunities for Zambians.

Mr. Slattery who is also IM4DC Deputy Director notes that it however requires concerted efforts to share the benefits from such a program.

Earlier ZAM4D coordinator Vincent Kawamya observed that the launch of the ZAM4DC is the beginning of a strong partnership between IM4DC and Zambia’s Alumni.

And Zambia Australia Alumni Association chairperson Timothy Moono has welcomed the launch of the ZAM4D as a new member of the larger Alumni family.