Ronnie Jere, the president of Zambians for Peace, Unity, and Development-ZUPED, is calling for accountability from the Mines Minister regarding illegal mining at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM). Jere believes that those who stand to benefit from KCM’s current situation were responsible for the delay in announcing a plan for the mine’s future. It is important for the Mines Minister to explain the situation and take action to address any illegal mining activities at KCM.
During a recent parliamentary debate on the effects of illicit financial flows on the budget and its sustainability, Moomba Member of Parliament Fred Chatila called for accountability from the Mines Minister regarding illegal mining at Konkola Copper Mines-KCM. Chatila revealed that illegal mining was taking place at KCM with impunity, highlighting the need for action and transparency in the mining industry.
There are growing calls for accountability as the Mines Minister is being urged to explain the illegal mining activities taking place at KCM. The Zambia Union of Professional and Executive Women’s (ZUPED) has raised concerns that the government may be deliberately delaying the handover of KCM to benefit a select few individuals. These suspicions were made public on June 2, 2023, and have sparked widespread outrage and demands for transparency and accountability.
According to Mr. Jere, there is evidence to support these accusations, including revelations from parliament. Despite the minister’s public denial of any wrongdoing, many are demanding answers and transparency.
Calls for accountability are being made as the Mines Minister is being urged to explain the illegal mining activities taking place at KCM. Mr. Jere is demanding that the government take action and turn over KCM to prevent a small group of individuals from profiting at the expense of the 20 million Zambians who are suffering from poverty, hunger, and disease. The urgency of the situation is highlighted by the fact that the country is losing its valuable resources to these illegal activities.
Despite calls for accountability regarding illegal mining at KCM, the Minister of Mines, Paul Kabuswe, has yet to provide an explanation.
