Towards Sustainable Mining


Ministry of Mines and ZEMA back sustainable practices that promote environmental protection, community development, and ensure traceable gold and better incomes for miners

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (17 March 2026) -- ZCCM Investments Holdings (ZCCM-IH) and planetGold Zambia Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting sustainable artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Zambia.

ZCCM-IH Chief Executive Officer Kakenenwa Muyangwa said during the signing ceremony that the partnership will bring world-class solutions to artisanal and small-scale miners.

He explained that the initiative will advance mercury-free mining, promote formalized supply chains, and help create fair markets for miners.

Muyangwa added that the collaboration will also improve miners’ incomes, support community development, and reduce environmental impacts.

Muyangwa said the partnership introduces practices that promote safer mining operations while protecting the environment and improving the livelihoods of artisanal mining communities.


planetGold Zambia National Project Manager Abigail Mwailenge said the MoU supports the formalization of the gold sector and will improve miners’ access to finance as well as formal markets.

She explained that the agreement represents an important step toward building a gold mining industry that is formal, economically viable, and environmentally responsible.

Assistant Director for Artisanal Small-Scale Miners at the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Jackson Kafwanka said the government remains committed to formalizing the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector.

Kafwanka noted that the agreement will help miners access formal markets, receive fair value for their gold, and operate in a responsible manner.

He added that Zambia has the potential to make artisanal gold mining a meaningful contributor to sustainable national development.

Constantino Mwembela, representing the Acting Director General of the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), said the project is aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating the use of mercury in artisanal mining.

Mwembela said the initiative will promote mercury-free gold processing methods, establish traceable gold supply chains, and improve miners’ access to finance.

He added that the project will also encourage knowledge sharing and strengthen local capacity in the mining sector.

The MoU is expected to advance a sustainable, inclusive, and formalized artisanal gold mining sector in Zambia.



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