Care for Nature Zambia Executive Director Nsama Musonda Kearns PRESS STATEMENT Wednesday 27th May 2020
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Care for Nature Zambia Executive Director Nsama Musonda Kearns PRESS STATEMENT Wednesday 27th May 2020
THE people of Luapula Province would like to thank the Minister of Mines Honorable Richard Musukwa for coming to Luapula following the numerous concerns raised over manganese mining. It is indeed gratifying to have the minister in the province as it brings new hope that the challenges being faced will be resolved. Since the days of Mansa Batteries, Manganese has contributed significantly to the development of the province and if it is mined and managed sustainably, it can still contribute to job creation and poverty reduction.
All stakeholders involved should use this opportunity wisely to ensure that all the concerns people have raise are resolved once and for all.
With the increased demand for manganese on the international market, Government can generate revenue from manganese, Artisanal and Small Scale Miners can create employment for the local people and communities can develop through corporate social responsibility and knowledge transfer while traditional leaders can use the mineral royalties to develop their chiefdoms.
Traditional leaders and community members should also take responsibility and ensure that they refrain from selling off their land and playing victims in the end.
Mineral resources are finite, non-renewable, once they are finished, they cannot be replaced therefore it is only right that while the resource is available everyone benefits and the environment is safe guarded.
It is also very important that all miners have traceable references and physical addresses for easy engagement with the people where need arises.
As it is today, most miners are only present at the site and if conflicts arise, it is very difficult to trace them for dialogue.
Investors need to be free and safe to conduct their businesses without facing any harassment, but same time they should also work in accordance with the labor laws and also adhere to the provisions of the mines and environmental regulations.
As Non-Governmental Organizations, we remain committed to promoting peace and dialogue on a non-partisan basis and will continue working with the government of the day to ensure that the people of Luapula Province attain adequate standard of living.
Nsama Musonda Kearns
Executive Director
Care for Nature Zambia
