Order restored at Black Mountain

Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe says order has been restored at the black mountain in Kitwe following instructions to chrome pickers to stockpile their material away from the premises.

In a ministerial statement to Parliament on the prevailing situation at the Nkana slug dump commonly known as Black Mountain, Mr Kabuswe says four designated picking points have been established for chrome pickers with additional picking points expected to be established.

He adds that all the four picking points will be secured by the Zambia Police which will be reinforced by the Zambia Army when need arises.

Mr Kabuswe says the designation of picking points has not only resulted in the restoration of order, but has also reduced overcrowding at the mountain which could comprise the safety, health and environmental standards and procedures thereby jeopardizing the lives of the miners at the site.

The Minister FURTHER STATES that a competent, qualified and experienced mine manager has also been appointed to supervise, direct and control mine operations at the site in line with the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2015 and the Mining Regulations of 2016.

And Mr. Kabuswe says UPND cadres have the right to benefit from the black mountain because they are also Zambians.