By 
President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring order in Zambia’s mining sector by establishing an inter-ministerial committee to address illegal mining and the recent pollution incident on the Copperbelt.
The committee, chaired by Vice-President Mutale Nalumango, comprises ministers and technical experts from relevant departments and agencies.
This development was announced in a statement issued Thursday by State House Chief Communications Specialist, Clayson Hamasaka.
President Hichilema cited the recent unrest in Chingola and the gold rush in Mufumbwe as evidence of the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect communities and safeguard national resources.
He expressed sorrow over the loss of life in Chingola and emphasized that combating illegal mining must involve a structured licensing system that ensures local communities benefit from the country’s mineral wealth.
“Key to tackling illegal mining once and for all is to ensure there are plentiful employment opportunities, particularly for our young people,” President Hichilema said.
He stressed that driving economic growth, creating jobs, and securing long-term prosperity for all Zambians remained his government’s top priorities.
“Our natural resources are a blessing and crucial to securing Zambia’s long-term prosperity. We want our young people in safe, stable, and well-paying jobs—including in mining—but not at the expense of their safety by operating in illegal and unsafe mines,” he said.
The Head of State urged law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against all forms of hooliganism, especially illegal and hazardous mining activities that put lives at risk and degrade the environment.
He also assured residents affected by recent pollution that government was actively working to hold responsible parties accountable and implement all necessary compensation and land restoration measures.
“We will use our resources responsibly to support national development, create jobs, and improve lives. However, we will not tolerate lawlessness, and decisive action will be taken where necessary,” President Hichilema warned.
He reaffirmed his constitutional duty to protect the lives, safety, and welfare of all Zambians.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments