Mining Armageddon



...  Human Rights Defender Calls for Action Against Illegal Mining in Zambia

Lusaka, Zambia24  - (12-10-2024) - Zambia's mining sector faces serious challenges due to increasing illegal activities, according to human rights defender Ngande Mwanajiti. 

In his opinion piece titled Mining Armageddon, Mwanajiti highlights the urgent need for action to tackle rampant illegal mining and corruption.

While Zambia's mineral wealth is often touted as a key economic driver, Mwanajiti warns that illegal practices threaten to undermine the industry. 

He notes that certain buyers, not just mine owners, are driving these illegal activities.

 "Certain buyers influence, sponsor, and sometimes coerce illegal miners to encroach on licensed concessions," he explains, suggesting that much of this could be avoided if buyers dealt directly with legal operators.

Reports of diverted copper and police seizures of stolen goods underscore the extent of the issue. 

Mwanajiti likens the situation to the corruption seen in the Mobutu regime in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, warning that unchecked illegalities could lead to widespread corruption within Zambia.

Mwanajiti calls on Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe and Permanent Secretary PS Dr Hapenga Kabeta to act decisively against illegal mining. 

He stresses the importance of law enforcement in restoring order and protecting Zambia's resources from further exploitation.

“The time for action is now,” Mwanajiti urges, emphasizing that Zambia's mineral wealth must benefit the nation, not become a curse. He calls for unity among stakeholders to combat illegal mining and secure the future of the sector.

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