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Paper short abstract:

This study explores the intersection of land tenure and critical mineral extraction in Zambia, examining the implications for governance, local communities, and mining investments. It addresses policy gaps, land rights conflicts, and benefit-sharing mechanisms to inform policy recommendations.

Paper long abstract:

The research paper explores the intersection of land rights and critical mineral governance in Zambia, a country rich in mineral resources yet facing challenges in land tenure systems. The transition to renewable energy requires large-scale extraction of critical minerals, but the land on which these resources are found often has competing economic, cultural, and environmental values. Zambia’s land governance framework is characterized by a blend of customary and statutory systems, creating complexities in land acquisition for mining activities. Customary land tenure, which covers the majority of land, is governed by traditional chiefs, while statutory land is managed by the state. This dual system leads to legal ambiguities and conflicts, especially when mining encroaches on customary lands. The research aims to understand the practical processes of securing land for mining, identify policy gaps, and assess the impact of land tenure on local communities, including benefit-sharing mechanisms. The project applies a qualitative multi-method approach, including secondary research on policies and laws, and primary research through interviews, dialogue meetings, and focus groups in mining-affected areas. The findings will provide context-rich insights into the political economy of land use, highlighting social, environmental, and economic tensions. Expected outcomes include theoretical contributions to the field, policy recommendations for a just transition, and actionable insights for improving land governance in Zambia's mining sector. This research aligns with the Centre for Environment Justice’s goals of advocating for responsible mining practices and fostering sustainable land-based investments.