ESMAZ calls for screening of investors in emerald areas

The Emerald and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia (ESMAZ) has called on government to screen all the investors in the emerald restricted area so that those not benefiting the country are gotten rid of.

Association President Victor Kalesha tells Q-news that the ministries of mines and commerce, trade and industries, home affairs and the Zambia Development Agency should conduct to an intensive screening of investors in the emerald restricted area and cancel the investment licenses for those who seem not care for Zambians.

Mr. Kalesha has clarified that the association is not advocating for chasing of investors, but that the investment should benefit the Zambian people.

He notes that while Zambia is endowed with vast mineral natural resources, the country benefits very little from these natural resources. Meanwhile Mr. Kalesha has questioned how the shares in Kagem mine where sold for government to become a minority shareholder.