Empowering Mpika, Zambia: Inclusion for Sustainable Resource Use
Mpika District has been on the media over the past days as a result of the discovery of gold deposits in Kanyelele of Chikwanda and Mukwikile Chiefdoms.
“We have consulted and subsequently written to the government through the Provincial Minister’s office, urging them to convene a meeting that includes all stakeholders, such as traditional leaders and respective ministry representatives. During this gathering, we aim to reach an all-inclusive decision,” stated Simon Njovu, Board Chairman of the Small Scale Miners Association of Zambia.
This is so the chiefs are part of the process that will allow the people to benefit from this God-given wealth, the traditional leaders know the people in their communities and therefore should be allowed to play a role in the identification process of those who should be licensed for mining especially small scale miners themselves.
“We also appeal to the government to expel foreigners who are taking advantage of the current situation and implement measures to ensure that local people, especially the youth and women, benefit.
For far too long, we have witnessed foreigners seizing control of our resources, and this trend must be halted. Additionally, the government should consider providing empowerment initiatives alongside the allocation of small and medium-scale mining licenses to the youth and women across the country.
By doing so, we can enhance local economies, ensure that our people reap the benefits of the wealth in their own land, and break the cycle of poverty that hampers our communities,” emphasized Mr. NJovu.
