Govern urges small scale gold miners to adpt safety and environmental care

The government has called on small-scale gold miners in Zambia to focus on safety and adopt practices that are good for the environment.

This comes as worries grow about accidents, unsafe working conditions, and the use of dangerous chemicals like mercury.

David Siame, the District Commissioner of Mpika, made this request after meeting with a group from planetGOLD Zambia.

He highlighted the urgent need for better safety measures and care for the environment, especially in the Kanyelele area, which is known for informal mining where illegal activities and mercury use are common.

“The situation in Kanyelele is concerning,” Siame stated. “The ongoing use of mercury is a serious threat to the health of miners, animals, and the local environment. We need to take action now to protect our people and our surroundings.”

Siame emphasized the need for more efforts to create a safer workplace for local miners, particularly young people, by stopping harmful practices and encouraging sustainable methods.

He also pointed out that the lack of safety gear and standards puts miners at risk of dangerous situations.

During the meeting, Abigail Mwailenge, the National Project Manager for planetGOLD Zambia, confirmed the organization’s dedication to raising awareness about the dangers of mercury and promoting safer mining practices throughout the country.

Mwailenge shared that the organization has finished a nationwide geological survey to provide artisanal miners with important information about good mining locations and sustainable extraction methods.

“Our research not only helps miners find productive areas but also guides national policies on how to better support artisanal and small-scale mining,” Mwailenge explained.

“We are collaborating closely with the Ministry of Mines to make the sector more professional and reduce risks for both people and the environment.”

She stressed the need for ongoing collaboration to ensure safety and environmental responsibility among miners.