Fight against illegal mining intensified – Kabuswe

GOVERNMENT is making significant progress in eradicating illegal mining, Paul Kabuswe, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Development has said.
Delivering a ministerial statement in Parliament yesterday, Mr Kabuswe said government had intensified the fight against illegal mining activities in the country.
Mr Kabuswe said illegal mining had a lot of environment degradation, loss of lives as well as revenue loss to the country and that government was seriously addressing the challenges.
“Illegal mining has caused environmental degradation, loss of lives, and revenue losses and the Government is taking decisive action to address this challenge,” Mr Kabuswe said.
MR Kabuswe outlined the key developments on an online licensing system, which he said would allow applications via smartphones, with an electronic payment module underway to enhance transparency.
“Over 950 mining rights have been granted since 2023 and government is now focusing on gold, manganese and copper. Operational gold buying centers in Mumbwa and Rufunsa can now provide fair markets for miners, with Zambia Gold Limited ensuring competitive pricing,” Mr Kabuswe said.
He explained that government was also training miners in safe and sustainable practices, while addressing health and environmental concerns.
“Strengthened enforcement and interagency collaboration are curbing illegal activities, while reforms to the Mines and Minerals Development Act will establish a dedicated ASM department and support fund,” Mr Kabuswe said.