By Anthony Chomba,
ZCCM-IH will soon begin constructing access roads at Kikonge Mine in Mufumbwe District as part of government efforts to formalize artisanal and small-scale mining and restore order in the area.
Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe says the move reflects government’s commitment to structured and regulated mining operations amid rising security concerns linked to illegal mining.
Speaking in Lusaka, Mr. Kabuswe revealed that illegal mining in Mufumbwe has led to the emergence of small militia groups, describing the development as alarming and a threat to national security.
He stressed that government is determined to restore sanity and ensure all mining activities operate within the law, adding that formalising the artisanal mining sector remains the long-term solution.
Mr. Kabuswe cited Ghana as an example, noting that the country significantly increased gold revenues after formalising its artisanal miners and establishing a Gold Board.
