PRESS STATEMENT ON MWEMBESHI MINERAL RESOURCES BAN IN LOWER ZAMBEZI

9th November 2023

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNMENT’S BACKING OF ZEMA’S DECISION ON MWEMBESHI RESOURCES A PLUS FOR ENVIRONEMENTAL JUSTICE

We commend government for the stance taken through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in supporting the cancellation of the Decision Letter of Mwembeshi Resources Limited by ZEMA. We are for a sustainable environment for a better future and this decision should be commended by all well-meaning citizens. The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) made the right decision.

The backing of ZEMA decision by the government demonstrates its confidence in the competency of its regulatory body’s mandate and functions. 

ActionAid is hopeful that ZEMA will not experience interference in executing its mandate for the well-being of the environment and the people. 

We therefore urge the government to carry out similar punitive actions on other erring firms. Lack of accountability and non-adherence to mining and environmental impact regulations has long term consequences on people’s sustainability. Environmental rights to clean water, air, and soil that is free from pollution can be affected. 

The tourism in the park has the potential to enhance benefits obtained as regards income derived. In the spirit of equity, we urge the government to put up effective modalities that will ensure a fair share of benefits through community beneficiation funds as they would improve the livelihoods of the communities for a much longer period with proper management of the natural resources in the park.

Signed

Jovina Nawenzake (Ms)

INTERIM COUNTRY DIRECTOR-ACTIONAID ZAMBIA