Transnational Actors and the Effect on the Mining Sector in Zambia: A Case of Mopani Copper Mines and Kalumbila Mines

Abstract

This study examined the effects of transnational actors on Zambia's mining sector, focusing on Mopani Copper Mines and Kalumbila Mines. The research addressed concerns about the impact of transnational mining operations on local communities, including economic dependencies, environmental degradation, and cultural disruption, while questioning the effectiveness of current mineral policies in protecting community interests. The study aimed to examine mineral policy effects on mining practices, assess operational impacts on local communities' economic and socio-cultural traditions, and analyse relationships between transnational actors and traditional leaders in Mufulira and Kalumbila districts. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected data from 400 participants through questionnaires and interviews with traditional leaders, civic leaders, and mining company employees. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The findings revealed moderate satisfaction with mineral policy effectiveness (mean = 3.00, SD = 1.399), with regression analysis identifying policy as the strongest predictor of mining outcomes (β = 0.397, p < 0.001). Mining operations showed significant correlations with mineral policy (r = .723, p < 0.01) showing that mining operations affect positively mineral policy. Furthermore, community duration (r = .265, p < 0.01), while traditional leadership engagement correlated strongly with both mineral policy (r = .685, p < 0.01) and mining operations (r = .698, p < 0.01). Traditional leaders reported ceremonial rather than substantive involvement in decision-making, while civic leaders noted variations in engagement quality based on mining companies' origins. Management described structured development programs, but community members highlighted displacement issues and livelihood disruptions. The study recommends establishing an independent Mining Policy Implementation Commission, mandating enforceable community development agreements, and creating a Traditional Leaders Advisory Council with statutory powers in mining-related decisions.