SMALL SCALE MINERS WARNS GOVT’S DECISION TO STOP RESCUE SUPPORT FOR ILLEGAL MINERS COULD COST LIVES
By Justina Matandiko
The Association of Small-Scale Miners says government’s decision to withdraw support during mining emergencies involving illegal miners could result in the loss of many lives.
Association President Kelvin Tembo says while government may be concerned about the growing cost of rescue operations, pulling back completely is not the solution.
This follows remarks by Ministry of Mines Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta that government will no longer spend public resources on rescue operations for individuals engaged in illegal mining, noting that the practice endangers lives and places a significant burden on government resources.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Tembo is, however, advising that focus should instead be on addressing the root causes of illegal mining through formalisation, awareness campaigns, and the creation of safer and legal mining opportunities for those in the sector.
He says many people engaging in illegal mining are doing so out of economic necessity and need support to transition into regulated mining activities that comply with safety and environmental standards.
PHOENIX NEWS
Kelvin Tembo why does your organisation exist?
Civic education is not the role of government alone. You proud yourself to lead a grouping but dont play your part in speaking and educating member about responisible behavior. That is part of your role. Stop the finger point and do your job. Stop negecting your responisiblity and making it seem like Government the one in the wrong.
Government has done its part. Regulationa and safety measures if your members bothered to follow would act like responisible adults.