Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) President Joseph Chewe has urged the government to tighten mining regulations to curb illegal activities by foreign nationals. The call follows the recent suspension of two Chinese-operated mining firms in Kasempa District for illegal processing of gold and copper ore.
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce clarified that the suspended firms were not members, distancing itself from the companies.
Speaking in an interview on Thursday, Chewe said the incident should serve as a wake-up call for authorities. “We need to tighten the regulations in place to ensure that we are in control of the minerals that our country is endowed with to ensure that only legitimate people are involved,” he stated.
Chewe emphasized the need for strict monitoring and enforcement in the mining sector to protect Zambia’s natural resources. He noted that illegal mining not only threatens revenue but also endangers workers and surrounding communities.
The union’s call aligns with recent government actions to clamp down on unlicensed operations. By tightening regulations, Zambia aims to ensure that mining activities contribute to sustainable development and benefit local communities while maintaining national oversight over its mineral wealth.
Chewe concluded that collaboration between government, unions, and legitimate operators is key to safeguarding the sector and promoting responsible mining practices.