Group demands clear roadmap for reviving emerald mining in Lufwanyama

The Emerald Production Watch of Zambia (EPWOZ) has called for the establishment of a roadmap aimed at reviving emerald mining in Lufwanyama to enable it contribute to the country’s economy.

EPWOZ president, Musa Kafimbwa, made this call with a belief that the emerald sector had huge potential to contribute to Zambia’s economic revival.

Kafimbwa told journalists in Lusaka on Saturday that EPWOZ had confidence in President Hakainde Hichilema to reorganise the sector so that it continued to contribute to economic recovery.

He also commended President Hichilema for unlocking Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) and subsequent investment into the giant mining company.

Read more: Govt aims for transparency, efficiency in gemstone sector, as Hichilema seeks active participation of Zambians

“It is this kind of leadership that gives us confidence as EPWOZ that President Hichilema can develop a roadmap that will bring sanity in the emerald mining industry which will see the country and its people benefit through taxes, job and business opportunities.

“It is not only sad but also shameful that despite living in the country of abundant natural resources, majority Zambians have continued wallowing in poverty and hunger ” Kafimbwa said.

He said the joint investment between ZCCM-IH and International Resources Holdings would enable Zambians to get both business and employment opportunities.

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