Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, has called on established mining companies to actively share their expertise in occupational safety standards with small-scale mining cooperatives. His remarks came during the inter-company first aid competition hosted by Mopani Copper Mines at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
Minister Kabuswe emphasized the urgent need for established firms to extend their knowledge to smaller cooperatives to help curb illegal mining activities and prevent the tragic loss of life, particularly among young miners. “As a Government, we are very committed to empowering the youths to participate in the mining industry,” he said, “but we are concerned about the continued illegal mining activities being undertaken because it is leading to loss of lives of many.”
He encouraged mining companies to adopt and invest in technology-enabled safety solutions such as telemedicine and remote consultations. These innovations can provide expert medical guidance in real time, enhancing safety for miners working in remote and hazardous conditions.
The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting youth participation in mining through formalized cooperatives but underscored the importance of conducting operations in a safe, orderly, and regulated manner.
“Since you are already established, I want you as mining companies to offer lessons to these small cooperatives by teaching them the occupational safety standards needed in the sector,” Kabuswe added.
This call to action aligns with Zambia’s broader efforts to formalize small-scale mining activities, reduce illegal mining, and promote safer working environments. By fostering collaboration between large mining companies and small cooperatives, the government aims to create a more sustainable and secure mining sector that benefits all stakeholders.
The inter-company first aid competition itself underscores the importance of safety awareness and preparedness in the mining industry, reinforcing that protecting miners’ lives must remain a top priority across the sector.