CHIEFTAINESS SINAZONGWE CALLS FOR RESPONSIBLE MINING INVESTMENT*

….As CEJ launches SAT sponsored project…

Sinazongwe, Wednesday (November 20, 2024)
MEDIA STATEMENT

Chieftainess Sinazongwe of Sinazongwe District in Southern Province has called for responsible mining investment in her coal mineral-rich chiefdom.

She has since paid tribute to the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) for sensitising her and her subjects to human, environmental, and land rights.

Chieftainess Sinazongwe was speaking in Sinazongwe District during the CEJ’s Multi-stakeholder Dialogue focused on advancing responsible business conduct in Zambia’s mining sector supported by Southern Africa Trust (SAT).

The Traditional Leader noted that her people were affected by significant pollution and the infringement of their rights.

She witnessed the dissatisfaction of her subjects with the payments they received, some getting K2000, and expressed her need to protect her community as a chief.

Meanwhile, Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) Executive Director Maggie Mwape highlighted the importance of mining to the nation, noting that many gadgets used today contain components derived from minerals.

Ms. Mwape announced the launch of a new project titled “Advancing Responsible Mineral Extraction and Community Rights in Zambia.”

She explained that the initiative responds to the urgent need for enhanced accountability and responsible business conduct in the mining sector.

The CEJ Executive Director mentioned that the project would support 6 to 10 women’s groups in Sinazongwe by the end of November 2024, bringing the total to 18 groups supported in the last two years.

She also referred to the recently concluded initiative, “Voices for Climate Justice and National Resource Governance,” which allowed CEJ to engage communities, raise awareness, and advocate for sustainable practices.

“The overarching goal of the new project is to tackle the challenges caused by mining activities, such as environmental degradation, social inequalities, and human rights violations. The project aims to create a regulatory environment that ensures responsible resource management for current and future generations. Over the next two years, the focus will be on two key districts; Serenje in Central Province and Sinazongwe in the Southern Province, chosen due to their significant exposure to pollution, land degradation, and displacements,” she said.

Ms. Mwape thanked the project’s partners, including the Southern Africa Trust, the government, civil society, and church leaders, for their support.

And Sinazongwe District Commissioner Nchimunya Siakole emphasized the importance of CEJ’s multi-stakeholder dialogue focused on advancing responsible business conduct in Zambia’s mining sector.

Mr. Siakole highlighted the collective commitment to addressing critical issues impacting communities and the environment.

He recognized the vital role of the mining sector in the national economy but also acknowledged the challenges faced by mining communities, such as economic inequities, environmental degradation, and social injustice.

The Senior Government Official assured that the government is aware of the challenges and is working on policy interventions to address them, including the National Mineral Resource Development Policy of 2022, which aims to promote sustainable development in the mining sector while protecting the rights and interests of local communities.

He emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and active community engagement, believing that these principles are essential for fostering an environment where both businesses and communities can thrive together.

“The policy seeks to ensure that mining operations contribute equitably to the socio-economic development of communities, including mechanisms for fair revenue sharing and benefits that directly impact the lives of those affected by mining activities,” he said.

Mr. Siakole commended CEJ and the Southern Africa Trust for their efforts in implementing the Advancing Responsible Mining Extraction and Community Rights Initiative, which brings stakeholders together for constructive dialogue and cooperation. He praised CEJ’s commitment to promoting environmental justice and sustainable management of natural resources, aligning perfectly with the government’s objectives.

*CEJ COMMUNICATIONS UNIT*