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The Small-Scale Miners Association is calling on its members to work closely with the government to formalise their mining operations, a move that could improve safety and operational conditions across Zambia’s small-scale mining sites.
Ngobola Muyembe, president of the association, highlighted the benefits of formalisation, stating that the government was ready to support small-scale miners with necessary equipment and resources.
“By formalising, miners can access government-provided equipment that enables them to operate in safe and healthy environments,” Muyembe explained in a telephone interview with Zambia Monitor.
He noted that many informal mining sites currently lacked adequate safety measures, putting miners at high risk.
Muyembe stressed that illegal mining practices lead to a high incidence of accidents and called on miners to avoid operating without proper registration.
“It is critical that miners engage with the government to secure their lives and operate safely rather than putting themselves in danger,” he added.
In addition to operational safety, Muyembe stated that formalising small-scale mining would provide economic benefits, such as potential financial support and easier access to markets, ultimately helping miners contribute more effectively to the industry and the country’s economy.
Meanwhile, Muyembe conveyed his sorrow over the tragic death of a young miner.
Moses Simutowe, a 22-year-old working at Shiwang’andu gold mine, was struck by lightning on Monday while seeking shelter in a tent around 5 p.m.
The association extended its condolences to Simutowe’s family and reiterated the need for improved safety measures to protect miners from such unforeseen incidents.
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