SOLWEZI - National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) presidential candidate Brian Mundubile has pledged to reopen the Kikonge Gold Mine if elected, saying his administration will ensure that small-scale miners benefit directly from Zambia's mineral resources.
Speaking during a campaign meeting in Solwezi District of North-Western Province, Mr. Mundubile said his party's manifesto prioritizes reserving selected mines and mining dumpsites for local miners to increase Zambian participation in the mining sector.
He said North-Western Province has contributed significantly to the country's mineral wealth but has not received development commensurate with its resource potential.
Mr. Mundubile argued that the province continues to face challenges such as inadequate road infrastructure, limited healthcare facilities and insufficient youth empowerment programmes, while mining companies have not invested enough in surrounding communities.
He said an NRPUP administration would ensure that mining revenues directly benefit residents of mining communities and would provide artisanal and small-scale miners with mining equipment to improve productivity and safety.
Meanwhile, NRPUP Provincial Chairperson Enoch Kapalu said the party's commitment to reopening the Kikonge Gold Mine reflects the aspirations of young people in Kasempa and Solwezi, who have long called for greater access to mining opportunities.
Source: Phoenix News
By: Gloria Chabala