Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Father Leonard Chiti
Government has stressed the need for constant dialogue between communities, mining firms and other stakeholders as a way of ensuring that mineral development in the country benefits all.
Speaking during the sixth Zambia Alternative Mining Indaba being held under the theme “mineral development for all, leaving no one behind”, ministry of mines and mineral development permanent secretary, Paul Chanda said communities hosting the mines, and the wider citizenry are supposed to be the main beneficiaries from mineral wealth.
Mr. Chanda says government wishes to see increased participation of the local communities in decision making accompanied with social responsibility and the promotion of transparency and respect for human rights from mining firms.
He has noted the need for various stakeholders in the mining sector to address the various negative effects that mining has on the environment, cultural and traditional structures and the alteration of the local economic practices.
Mr. Chanda has since applauded the role that civil society organisations, the church, international organizations and the local communities play in pushing forward the agenda of the mining industry in the country.
He said this was in a speech read on his behalf by director of mines, Moya Lumamba.
And speaking on behalf of the civil society organizations, Jesuit Center for Theological Reflection Director Father Leonard Chiti said there is need for the civil society and relevant stakeholders to come up with policies and recommendations that will ensure that the mining sector helps in reducing poverty and inequalities in the country.
And representing the international community, Swedish Ambassador to Zambia, Henrik Cederin pledged the commitment of the international community in helping boost the mining industry in the country, and help address some of the challenges that local communities face as a result of mining activities.