Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z), has expressed concern that the Mining License Committee granted two large scale exploration licenses in September 2024, in the Lower Zambezi National Park, barely a year after the decision to cancel the previous environmental approval for another mining project.
Government last year cancelled the proposed large-scale mining project in the Lower Zambezi National Park, a decision that was lauded by many environmental defenders, activists and concerned civil society actors.
But TI-Z Executive Director, Maurice Nyambe, says Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development website recently published the approval of two large-scale exploration licenses 38439-HQ-LEL and 38572-HQ-LEL, located in the Lower Zambezi National Park.
Mr. Nyambe said TI-Z had assumed that the issue pertaining to mining in Lower Zambezi National Park was a settled matter.
“It is disheartening to see the current administration resurrect the issue and do the exact same thing for which the previous administration was condemned,” said Mr. Nyambe.
He said this is because there have been public outcry and environmental demerits of the previous proposed mining project.
Mr. Nyambe said TI-Z will continue to monitor developments with regards to these approvals, and will collaborate with other concerned stakeholders to vociferously oppose this and similar decisions relating to mining activities in protected areas.
“TI-Z’s position remains that explorations and mining licensing and approvals, in addition to being conducted transparently, should not be approved or permitted to occur in protected areas such as national parks and forest reserves,” said Mr. Nyambe.
By Eva Hatontola
