The Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) has called on informal miners operating in identified mining areas in Mpika District to vacate the sites to pave the way for demarcation and allocation of mining rights to eligible artisanal miners. The exercise, being undertaken in…

The Minerals Regulation Commission (MRC) has called on informal miners operating in identified mining areas in Mpika District to vacate the sites to pave the way for demarcation and allocation of mining rights to eligible artisanal miners.

The exercise, being undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, is targeting areas including Kamambwe, Kanyelele and Danger Hill, among others, as the Government moves to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining activities.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Mpika, MRC Director General Tom Hara said the exercise is aimed at bringing mining activities under the established regulatory framework and creating an orderly environment for legal operations.

 Minerals Regulation Commission Public Relations Officer Michelo Malungisa, Dr Hara, who was represented by MRC Manager for Minerals Protection and Security Malfred Moolela, warned that illegal mining, mineral processing, smuggling and trading are undermining mineral governance and depriving the country of revenue.

He said the Government is not against citizens participating in artisanal and small-scale mining but stressed that such activities must be conducted legally and responsibly.

Dr Hara further noted that the formalisation process will provide legitimate opportunities for Zambians to participate in the mining sector while strengthening regulatory oversight.

He reminded stakeholders that Section 20(5) of the Minerals Regulation Act No. 14 of 2024 reserves artisanal mining rights for Zambian citizens, subject to the applicable legal requirements and approval by the Commission.

Meanwhile, Muchinga Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Grant Chisapa said the Government is concerned about the environmental consequences of unregulated mining activities in the province.

Mr Chisapa cited concerns over contamination in areas such as Kanchibiya, Kanyelele and Munenshi, warning that irresponsible mining practices may threaten water sources, biodiversity and community livelihoods.

He also cautioned that uncontrolled mining posed risks to the North Luangwa ecosystem and wildlife, while the use of hazardous substances such as mercury presented serious environmental and public health concerns.

Mr Chisapa urged traditional leaders, miners and other stakeholders to support the formalisation initiative to ensure that mineral resources must be exploited legally, safely and sustainably.

And Chief Chikwanda of Mpika welcomed the initiative, saying stakeholder consultations are important in allowing local communities and miners to understand the process and contribute to decisions before allocation of mining rights.