UPND Revives Mines, Pushes Constitutional Reforms

Thousands of jobs restored on the Copperbelt as government targets inclusive governance

By Francis Maingaila | Lusaka

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has renewed its commitment to economic recovery and inclusive governance through an ambitious programme to revive Zambia’s Copperbelt mining sector and reform the national Constitution.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe provided an in-depth update on both fronts, describing the dual focus on economic revival and governance reform as central to President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.

“We are restoring jobs, creating inclusive governance structures, and strengthening democracy. This is real development—not lip service,” Simuuwe said.

Copperbelt Comeback: Mines Reopening, Jobs Returning

Simuuwe said the Copperbelt, once the economic backbone of Zambia, had suffered heavily under previous administrations, with mine closures resulting in massive job losses and economic stagnation.

He pointed to Shaft 28 in Luanshya as an example, where flooding and long-standing neglect caused serious disruption. However, he noted that the government had initiated a dewatering project currently employing 90 people directly.

“Once dewatering is completed, we anticipate 3,000 to 3,500 direct jobs and over 5,000 indirect jobs for contractors and suppliers,” Simuuwe said.

Simuuwe also highlighted the turnaround at Mopani Copper Mines. Under the previous Patriotic Front-led administration, production had dropped to between 60,000 and 65,000 metric tons annually. Now, with the involvement of new investors, International Resources Holdings (IRH), Mopani’s output is projected to increase to 232,000–240,000 metric tons annually.

“A total of $250 million has been committed to clear outstanding debts, including K87 million owed by KCM to Kitwe City Council,” he said. “Already, Mopani has restored over 10,500 jobs.”

Additionally, President Hichilema is expected to officiate at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Konkola Deep Mining Project, which will create 5,000 jobs and benefit from a $240 million debt clearance package for legacy obligations.

Other key mining sector developments include:

Mimbula Mine in Chingola: Phase 1 has already created 2,600 jobs; Phase 2 is expected to add 1,500 more.

Lubambe Mine: Targeting 100,000 metric tons per year at full capacity.

Chibuluma Mine: 600 jobs restored.

Emerald mines (Kagem and Grizzly): Over 3,000 workers employed.

Kansanshi Mine expansion: 1,000 jobs created so far, with a target of 10,000.

To protect local businesses, the government has enforced a 30-day payment policy to ensure prompt clearance of invoices to suppliers.

Constitutional Amendment Bill: A New Framework for Representation

Simuuwe also outlined key proposals in the Constitutional Amendment Bill currently before Parliament, which introduces Mixed Member Proportional Representation (MMPR)—a hybrid system combining the First-Past-The-Post and proportional representation models.

This system, he explained, is designed to ensure the fair representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the National Assembly.

The bill includes minimum quotas:

At least 20 women

12 youths

3 persons with disabilities

These groups will be guaranteed seats to promote diversity in national decision-making.

Simuuwe emphasized that the bill also addresses costly and avoidable by-elections:

Candidates who resign to deliberately trigger by-elections will be disqualified from re-contesting.

In case of death, reruns will be held within 30 days.

Vacant parliamentary seats must be filled within 90 days unless they fall within 108 days of a general election.

To strengthen accountability, MPs will now be required to serve their full term without mid-term local government elections. Ministers will also be required to vacate office at least 90 days before general elections to prevent abuse of public resources.

The bill reinstates oversight of MPs by their respective local councils and adopts UN-standard age classifications: children (under 18), youth (18–35), and adults (18+).

One of the bill’s most significant proposals is to curb presidential authority by requiring the Constitutional Court to approve any attempt to dissolve Parliament within seven days.

Dispelling Misinformation

Addressing speculation, Simuuwe was categorical that the bill is not targeted at former President Edgar Lungu and does not seek to lift immunity or pave the way for criminal charges against him.

“This bill is not about political persecution. It’s about closing governance loopholes and making the system more accountable,” he said.

Simuuwe contrasted the current reforms with the controversial 2016 “Butane Bill,” which was rejected for its attempt to reintroduce deputy ministers, politicize the judiciary, and create ambiguities around ‘Christian morality.’

Broad Appeal for Support

Simuuwe urged civil society, political stakeholders, and all citizens to support the proposed reforms and ongoing economic revival projects.

“This is a people’s bill. It is inclusive, forward-looking, and vital for our democracy,” he said.

He welcomed new members who had joined the UPND family and emphasized the party’s openness and inclusivity as part of its long-term vision.

“We invite everyone to be part of this transformation. Together, we are rebuilding Zambia.”