Japan has granted Zambia $1.2 million to enhance mineral analysis at the Geological Survey Department. This funding aims to procure advanced equipment, improving geological survey accuracy and efficiency, thus promoting investment and boosting tax revenues. Additionally, it supports ongoing human resource development programs.
Japan has awarded Zambia approximately $1.2 million (K33.6 million) to enhance laboratory capabilities at the Geological Survey Department, under the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development. This grant is part of the Economic and Social Development Programme and is aimed at procuring modern mineral analysis instruments.
During the signing ceremony in Lusaka, Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Takeuchi Kazuyuki, stated that the funding will bolster mineral analysis capabilities and update geological data. He emphasized that this advancement would potentially spur exploration and mining activities, contributing to increased national tax revenue and poverty alleviation.
Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane highlighted that the grant will enable the procurement of cutting-edge mining equipment, significantly enhancing the Geological Survey Department’s capabilities. He noted that the new instrumentation would improve the accuracy and efficiency of geological surveys, which could attract further investments into the mining sector.
Additionally, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief Representative Tateyama Jotaro affirmed that this grant supports ongoing human resource development initiatives. He referenced past efforts which saw seven officials and researchers from the Ministry of Mines complete their studies in Japan.
Japan’s grant of $1.2 million to Zambia is set to enhance mineral analysis capabilities at the Geological Survey Department. This funding aims to improve equipment and efficiency, which may lead to increased investment in the mining sector and boost national tax revenues. Furthermore, it aligns with continued efforts in human resource development, reflecting the strengthening partnership between Japan and Zambia.
Original Source: znbc.co.zm
