Minister Kabuswe condemns Chililabombwe violence, calls for dialogue with jerabos

Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe, says the government is deeply concerned by violent protests that led to the destruction of private property in Chililabombwe district, Copperbelt Province.

On Friday, illegal miners, commonly known as Jerabos, staged violent protests after being removed from a copper tailings dump belonging to Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), resulting in the destruction of shops in Chililabombwe’s second-class area.

Kabuswe, who is also the area Member of Parliament, strongly condemned the unrest.

“The government is deeply concerned about the unacceptable behaviour exhibited by some youths this morning in Chililabombwe. We strongly condemn the violent protests and destruction of public and private property that occurred in response to the removal of illegal small-scale miners from KCM’s tailings,” he said.

He stressed that under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership, the government remains resolute in its stance against illegal and unsafe mining practices, which have tragically claimed the lives of many young people.

“We are committed to ensuring that mining activities in the country are conducted in a safe and responsible manner,” Kabuswe said.

He, however, noted the importance of dialogue.

“While we condemn the violence and destruction, we also recognize the need for dialogue and collaboration,” Kabuswe said.

To this end, he announced plans to engage both KCM and the Jerabos to find a peaceful and sustainable solution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.

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