Minister of Green Economy and Environment Collins Nzovu says Government wants to increase the target of mining in the country as it is still the biggest anchor of the economy but adds that this will not be done at the expense of the health of the people and the environment.
During a visit to Amizo Power Engineering Limited, a Manganese mine in Luapula Province, the Minister expressed disappointed that despite visiting the mining company in February, it has not complied with the directives and recommendations it was given.
He says the rule of law has been thrown out and the country cannot continue operating like that, reemphasising that the Government does not want to close the mines but to steer them on the right path so that they follow the guidelines provided and ensure the environment and the people are protected.
Mr. Nzovu said all mines should have a qualified mine manager and environmental expert as required by law and adds that the Government will have no choice but to close the mining companies of repeated offenders who do not want to comply with the regulations.
And Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) Northern Region Manager Chrispin Simwanza said the mining company was written to and instructed to implement the directives and a follow up inspection made, however, it was sad that the company has failed to comply.
