Salutations:
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Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pride and honour that I welcome you all to Kitwe, the heart of Zambia’s mining hub, for the 2024 Zambia Anti-Corruption Conference. As Mayor of this vibrant city, it gives me particular pleasure to host this important event that brings together leaders, stakeholders, and changemakers united in the fight against corruption.
Kitwe and the broader Copperbelt hold a special place in Zambia’s economy. The mining industry has played a pivotal role in our nation’s progress, fueling employment, infrastructure development, and economic growth that supports the well-being of many Zambians. However, as we gather here, we must also acknowledge that this vital sector faces significant governance challenges. Corruption in extractive industries erodes public trust, drains our resources, and threatens the equitable distribution of our national wealth.
This year’s theme, “Collaborative Partnerships for Combatting Corruption in Extractive Industries,” is especially relevant to Kitwe and the Copperbelt, given the strategic importance of mining to Zambia. The decisions made here directly impact the livelihoods of not only local communities but also the entire nation. Therefore, this conference is a timely opportunity for us to engage in meaningful dialogue, build innovative solutions, and foster the partnerships needed to ensure that our natural resources serve as a blessing rather than a curse.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The fight against corruption is not one that can be won in isolation. It requires all sectors—government, private industry, civil society, and communities—to work together with a shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. This is especially evident in the mining sector, where the risks are significant, and the opportunities for exploitation are numerous.
Kitwe has seen the potential of mining to drive development, but we have also witnessed the impact of mismanagement and corruption. We have seen local communities struggle with limited access to mining benefits, environmental degradation, and a lack of accountability in resource distribution. These issues highlight the urgent need for stronger governance mechanisms and inclusive approaches that ensure no one is left behind.
This is why this conference is so important. It brings together a diverse range of voices—policy experts, private sector leaders, civil society representatives, and community advocates—to share ideas, build consensus, and take actionable steps to tackle corruption in extractive industries. It is only through these collaborative efforts that we can create a mining sector that is both transparent and inclusive, one that upholds the dignity of our people and safeguards our nation’s future.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As Kitwe hosts this significant gathering, I am hopeful that it will not only be a space for critical reflection but also a platform for transformative action. Let us leave this conference with renewed energy, strengthened partnerships, and concrete commitments to combat corruption in all its forms.
On behalf of the City of Kitwe, I extend my warmest welcome to you all and encourage you to make the most of this conference. Let us all take bold, tangible steps to ensure that Zambia’s mining industry becomes a model of integrity and transparency, one that truly uplifts our communities and drives sustainable development.
Thank you, and welcome once again to Kitwe!
Her Worship Ms. Mpasa Mwaya
