Govt blames incomplete geological mapping for worsening illegal mining activities in Zambia

The government has attributed the ongoing escalation of illegal mining activities across the country to the failure of past administrations to fully geologically map Zambia.

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, highlighted that only about 49 percent of the country’s mineral-rich areas have been geologically mapped.

Kabuswe made these remarks on Thursday in Lusaka during a courtesy call from a European Union (EU) delegation led by Class Adviser Henrik Hololei.

He emphasized that the current administration, in collaboration with other stakeholders, remains committed to ensuring the entire country is geologically mapped.

“Once the country is fully mapped, critical geological data will help curb illegal mining and allow the government to identify untapped mineral resources,” Kabuswe stated.

The minister also expressed appreciation for the ongoing collaboration between the EU and Zambia in this effort. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing the mining sector despite existing difficulties.

During the meeting, Hololei noted that cooperation between Zambia and the European Union on critical raw minerals is expected to benefit the country.

“The Finnish Geological Survey Department is already working with officers from the Ministry of Mines to ensure that the aerial surveys are a success,” he said.

Hololei expressed optimism that the aerial surveys would also enhance skills transfer, technological advancement, and long-term stability for future generations.

On May 16, 2024, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development signed a contract with Xcalibur for the provision of countrywide airborne geological services, marking a significant step towards comprehensive geological mapping in Zambia.

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