Deaths and Pollution as Illegal Mining Spreads in GMA

Illegal artisanal mining in Mpika’s Mukungule Game Management Area (GMA) continues to endanger both human life and wildlife, mainly through the contamination of water bodies.

Gilbert Mwale, Landscape Integration Manager at the North Luangwa Conservation Programme (NLCP), has raised the alarm over illegal miners polluting rivers and streams—actions that seriously threaten people and animals alike.

These activities contravene the Zambia Wildlife Act No. 14 of 2015, which forbids any harmful conduct within a GMA without official clearance.

Mr. Mwale further stated that open mine pits pose a direct danger to wildlife, including elephants that may fall into them.

“There is an illegal mining boom in Mukungule and Chifunda. People from Kanyelele have moved in and set up camp in Mukungule GMA, where they are conducting these unauthorized operations,” he disclosed.

He also pointed out that an illegally established farm block within Mukungule GMA is negatively impacting the area’s wildlife.

“Individuals are acquiring title deeds and exploiting the resources and wildlife, rather than working to preserve them,” he noted.

In response, Chief Mukungule of the Bisa-speaking people in Mpika District voiced support for lawful mining in his territory.

Speaking to journalists under the Wildlife Crime Prevention’s (WCP) Environmental Crime Journalism Fellowship during their palace visit, the traditional leader emphasized that legal mining practices are essential for national development.

He also revealed that earlier this month, two people lost their lives when the ground collapsed during illegal mining operations.

The Environmental Crime Journalism Fellowship, run by WCP, is designed to equip journalists with the tools and expertise needed to report accurately on environmental crimes.