THE construction of the Mumbwa Mineral Market Centre in Central Province has been completed, with authorities now preparing the facility for official commissioning and operations.

The project, whose construction began last year, is expected to play a key role in formalising gold trade in the district and enhancing benefits for artisanal and small-scale miners.

Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) Director of Mine Regulation and Standards, Desiderius Chapewa, confirmed the development during an inspection of the facility in Mumbwa district.

Mr Chapewa said the centre is designed to unlock the full potential of the mining sector while ensuring that citizens benefit fairly from mineral resources.

He stated the objective is to provide an organised and regulated marketplace where miners can sell their gold through official channels.

“This integrated approach is expected to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in gold trading,” he said.