Business
Kikonge gold mine licenses meant for cooperatives allegedly being diverted to ‘powerful’ individuals
Allegations of unfair practices have surfaced in
Picture: Zambian Business Times
Allegations of unfair practices have surfaced in the allocation of mining licenses at the Kikonge gold mine, with claims that licenses intended for local cooperatives are being diverted to well-connected individuals. This controversy is stirring deep resentment among community members and cooperative leaders, who say the move undermines both local empowerment and government directives.
In an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), Chrispine Mpanga, Secretary and representative for Chief Chizela of the Kaonde people in Mufumbwe District, highlighted allegations that, in addition to the officially recognized 89 cooperative licenses, several individual artisanal mining licenses have been allegedly granted outside of the formal process, a move that has sparked widespread discontent among local stakeholders.
Mpanga explained that this is despite many community members feel aggrieved, having invested significant resources in logistics and preparations, only to find themselves excluded from the latest round of tenement awards.
“The reduction from 1,200 previous awards to just 89, and the subsequent issuing of individual licenses, has left over 1,100 operatives without opportunities,” He further noted that government explanations for the reduced number of licenses, including the need to avoid granting tenements in animal corridors due to safety concerns, were legitimate.
However, the alleged subsequent issuance of licenses to individuals, outside the cooperative framework, has undermined trust in the process. “If these allegations are true, it is unfortunate and must be addressed urgently,” Mpanga emphasized.
Lakatips
The morning briefing
Zambia’s news, before your first meeting
One email each morning with the headlines that matter, from every newsroom we follow. Free, and one click to stop.
“We, as the Kingdom, cannot accept the issuance of individual tenements at Kikonge. This is uncalled for and undermines the spirit of community empowerment. We have deep respect for the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Dr. Kabeta, and trust in his integrity.
Therefore, we expect him to take immediate, proactive action to halt this practice. Any licenses issued to individuals should be cancelled, as their presence in Kikonge will only fuel unrest and lead to disorder.”
The Royal Establishment also reiterated its expectations of the President’s directive regarding Kikonge: “The President made a clear commitment during his campaign and taking of fice.
He stated publicly that he is aware of the challenges at Kikonge and will personally ensure proper management. When the Head of State makes such a declaration, it is a directive that must be taken seriously by all government officials and technocrats.
There is no need for further statements; what remains is for the responsible authorities to implement the President’s instructions diligently.”
The Royal Establishment cautioned that failure to adhere to the President’s directive and to address the concerns over local content and equitable participation could lead to further unrest among the affected communities.
They called on all relevant authorities to “pull up their socks” and act in accordance with the President’s vision for Kikonge and the wider mining sector. Regarding the current status in Kikonge, Mpanga confirmed that while the formal allocation process has ended, some security personnel remain in the area due to ongoing security concerns.
He added that excluded cooperatives are now seeking ways to collaborate with those who received licenses, in hopes of finding a way forward.
Article by Tyndale Muchiya
Source: Zambian Business Times — Read more
More to read
All Business →
Betuz Expects 20% Budget Allocation to Education
The Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) has called on government to allocate at...
Airtel Pushes Digital Adoption Through Bundle Bonanza Promotion
Airtel Zambia has launched a Bundle Bonanza
ZIPAR Sets 2027 Budget Test
Chikuba says next year’s spending plan must translate economic growth into jobs, stronger production and...