Curb Mine Accidents – ANDD
Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANDD) has urged government to provide individuals involved in illegal mining with the necessary licenses to avoid unnecessary mine accidents.
Organization Executive Director, Samuel Banda told Money News that the rampant increase in mine accidents in the country requires government’s serious intervention in addressing this growing trend.
Mr. Banda said it is important to understand why illegal mining activities are increasing in the country.
He however noted that many young people are engaging in illegal mining activities due to a lack of employment opportunities.
“It is crucial to analyze why illegal mining activities have surged, especially among the youth.”
“From ANDD’s perspective, many young individuals are engaging in illegal mining due to a lack of employment opportunities. In their search for ways to earn a living and support their families, they are resorting to illegal mining without proper training in safe mining practices, which significantly increases the risk of accidents,” Mr. Banda indicated.
He observed with sadness that just last month, an incident occurred at Green Mountain in Kitwe, and another took place yesterday at Luili Gold Mine in Nangoma constituency, a move which requires urgent attention from the government.
“Secondly, we recommend that government offers training and equip the youth with safety skills, and supply them with appropriate personal protective equipment.”
“By implementing these measures, the government will not only create employment opportunities but also empower citizens through ownership in the mining sector,” he added.
Mr. Banda believes that this initiative could broaden the tax base, which is essential for increasing government revenue that can be reinvested into other vital sectors such as agriculture, health, and energy.
He further advised the young people to prioritize their safety before engaging in any form of mining activities by utilizing personal protective equipment, obtaining professional training, operating within the legal framework and mining policies of the country.
Yesterday, Central Police Division reported a tragic mining accident that occurred at a mine pit operating in Mumbwa District, resulting in the death of 10 individuals while five others sustained injuries.
Police Commissioner Charity Munganga Chanda, explained in a statement that an unknown number of people went to conduct mining activities at the pit this morning.
“During the course of their mining activities, the earth collapsed on them. Rescue efforts led to the recovery of six miners with injuries, while nine were confirmed dead on the spot.”
“Unfortunately, one of the six injured miners later succumbed to his injuries at Nangoma Mission Hospital,” she said.
