Melo Media | Wednesday, January 15, 2025 | Lusaka
Lusaka, Zambia – The Geological and Minerals Development Bill, 2024, currently under parliamentary review, has sparked intense debate among stakeholders, with critics raising serious concerns over its potential socio-economic and environmental impacts.
The bill, which aims to streamline geological surveys, promote artisanal and small-scale mining, and regulate mineral development, has been lauded for its ambitions but criticized for several contentious provisions.
One of the most significant concerns lies in the broad powers granted to the Ministry of Mines and its designated officers. Under the bill, authorized officers can enter private land for surveys or investigations with minimal consent from landowners, raising fears of property rights violations. While the bill includes provisions for obtaining consent, it allows ministerial intervention to override refusals, which critics say could lead to abuse.
Although the bill mentions “sustainable development,” environmentalists argue it lacks clear mechanisms for environmental rehabilitation and accountability. The absence of detailed provisions on mitigating the environmental damage caused by mining activities could have long-term consequences, particularly for rural communities reliant on land and water resources.
The establishment of the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Fund is another polarizing aspect. While the fund aims to support small-scale miners, its management framework has been criticized for lacking transparency. Critics worry that inadequate oversight could lead to mismanagement or corruption, undermining the intended benefits for artisanal miners.
The bill’s provisions on confidentiality further exacerbate concerns about transparency. By restricting the publication or disclosure of certain information without ministerial consent, the bill risks stifling media scrutiny and public oversight. This could allow irregularities in mining operations to go unchecked.
The bill mandates preference for Zambian contractors and products in mining operations. While this aims to boost local participation, industry experts warn that many local businesses may lack the capacity to meet the sector’s demands, potentially leading to inefficiencies or inflated costs.
Civil society organizations, environmental experts, and community leaders have called for broader stakeholder consultations before the bill is enacted. “This legislation will define the future of Zambia’s mining sector. It must be inclusive, equitable, and sustainable,” said one activist.
With the bill’s enactment looming, critics urge the government to address its shortcomings to ensure that the legislation fosters development without compromising community welfare or environmental integrity.
