No sacred cows in fight against illegal mining, warns Kabuswe

The Government has commended the Zambia Army for its proactive role in safeguarding the country’s mineral resources and curbing illegal mining activities.

Speaking during a courtesy call by Army Commander Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, stressed the importance of discipline and order in driving national development.

“Meaningful development cannot be achieved without structure, noting that government is determined to ensure Zambia derives maximum value from its mineral wealth,” Kabuswe said in a statement issued on Saturday.

He commended the Army’s swift intervention in securing mining areas, even before sufficient funding was made available.

Kabuswe emphasised that mineral-rich areas, particularly those with gold, should translate into tangible development such as improved roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.

However, he expressed concern that many gold mining areas remained underdeveloped, with benefits concentrated among a few individuals engaged in illegal activities.

The Minister warned that there would be no exceptions in the fight against illegal mining, adding that individuals hiding behind the names of public officials would face the full force of the law.

Meanwhile, Lt Gen Zyeele reported that illegal miners had been removed from Kikonge in North-Western Province, although operations remained suspended due to waterlogged conditions.

He also confirmed that illegal mining in Rufunsa had been halted, with the area closed pending new operational guidelines.

Zyeele added that similar enforcement operations would soon be extended to Mpika, while cautioning foreign nationals against engaging in illegal mining.

He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining order, ensuring safety, and protecting the environment, stating that troops would remain deployed until authorities approve the return of licensed mining operations.

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