Association Calls for Formalization of Artisanal Small-Scale Miners

Small Scale Miners Association of Zambia has called for formalization of artisanal small-scale miners who have for a long time been scavenging slug dumps.

Speaking during the Sustainability Conference, held in Germany, Association Board Chairman Simon Njobvu notes that small scale artisanal miners have potential to bring economic stability because the money generated will not be externalized.

Mr. Njobvu states that apart from scavenging slug dumps mined by large scale mines, small scale miners are also exposed to health hazards and mostly operate illegally, therefore formalizing their operations will reduce risks.

“Mining activities result in deforestation but if miners are properly equipped and funded, they can be encouraged to plant trees on land equivalent to the area they are mining on, to mitigate the impact of mining activities on the environment,” Mr. Njobvu stated.

He added that Europe stands to benefit by supporting small scale miners and ensuring that the supply chain for critical minerals is more transparent, sustainable and free from exploitation that is currently rampant in Africa, as this will allow western countries to certify that their products are sources ethically.

“With support to address the challenges that small scale miners are facing, the sector can be a key driver of local and global economic growth” he added.

Meanwhile, Zambia’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, Winnie Chibesakunda said artisanal small-scale miners do not require formalization but need to be equipped with training and geological survey equipment for them to have meaningful stakes in the mineral resources.