ASSOCIATION CALLS FOR SAFETY MEASURES AT OB 19 AND OB 22 DUMPSITES AFTER HANDOVER TO SMALL-SCALE MINERS

 ASSOCIATION CALLS FOR SAFETY MEASURES AT OB 19 AND OB 22 DUMPSITES AFTER HANDOVER TO SMALL-SCALE MINERS

By Justina Matandiko

Small-Scale Miners Association of Zambia President Kelvin Tembo says safety must be top priority following President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to officially hand over the OB 19 and OB 22 dumpsites in Chingola to small-scale miners.

Mr. Tembo said many of the beneficiaries are unskilled and has urged government to ensure all necessary safety measures are in place before mining operations begin.

In an interview with phoenix news, Mr. Tembo has described the allocation of the dumpsites as a welcome move that gives small-scale miners an opportunity to operate legally within a designated mining area.

He noted that the empowerment programme has the potential to improve the livelihoods of many families, adding that there will be a ripple effect.

Mr. Tembo has however urged the beneficiaries to utilise the opportunity wisely by investing in sustainable ventures or learning a trade.

PHOENIX NEW