Engineering body condemns illegal mining, calls for stricter enforcement of regulations

The Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) has condemned the ongoing illegal and unregulated mining activities that continue to claim lives, citing recent fatal accidents in Chingola, Mumba, Chongwe and North-Western Province.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, EIZ President Engineer, Wesley Kaluba, said these unlawful practices undermined the efforts of regulators and legitimate operators working to ensure mining was conducted safely and sustainably.

“The continued tragedies, especially in the artisanal mining sector, highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement of regulations by all stakeholders to protect human life,” Kaluba said.

He stated the importance of reinforcing industry standards to ensure mining operations were carried out legally and safely.

Kaluba also called for qualified mining and engineering professionals to undergo extensive training to manage complex geological, environmental and mechanical processes.

“It is through their expertise that we can minimize environmental damage, safeguard workers and ensure responsible resource extraction,” he added.

Kaluba urged stakeholders and community leaders to collaborate in shutting down illegal operations, holding offenders accountable and protecting both the environment and compliant miners’ livelihoods.

He reaffirmed EIZ’s position that compliance, education and strong enforcement of mining regulations are essential to protect communities, sustain resources and uphold the integrity of the mining and engineering sectors.

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