Small-scale miners raise concern over licences, fees and lack of government engagement

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Some small-scale miners under the Federation of Small-Scale Mining Associations of Zambia have expressed frustration over recent developments in the mining sector, particularly the announcement of 3,000 exploration small-scale mining (ESM) licences and fees imposed by the Minerals Regulation Commission, which they describe as punitive.

Luapula Small-Scale Miners Association (LUSMA) Secretary and federation committee member Nathan Ngandwe says the developments have unsettled operators and risk damaging Zambia’s image as a mining destination.

Mr. Ngandwe says the matter could have been handled administratively instead of being publicised in a manner that portrays small-scale miners as defaulters.

He has warned that such actions could undermine investor confidence and the credibility of the mining sector.

Mr. Ngandwe says the federation is seeking to resolve the impasse with the Minerals Regulation Commission and has reiterated calls for a meeting with President Hakainde Hichilema, whom he described as a strong supporter of the small-scale mining industry.

He stressed that small-scale mining remains an important component of Zambia’s economy and requires continued government support and consistent policies.

Meanwhile, Federation for Women in Extractive Industry Trade and Value Addition Association of Zambia Secretary Treasurer General Christine Chibobo Chisanga has renewed calls for an urgent meeting with President Hichilema over unresolved challenges affecting the sector.

Ms. Chibobo says the federation is concerned that a directive by the President to convene a Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka with small-scale miners has not yet been fulfilled.

She explained that the Insaka, rooted in traditional practice, is intended to provide a platform where stakeholders can openly discuss challenges and agree on solutions.

Ms. Chibobo said the federation had expected structured engagement with government through the proposed forum following its interaction with President Hichilema, but no invitation has been extended to date.

She said the absence of such engagement has delayed efforts to resolve critical challenges affecting artisanal and small-scale miners, traders and jewellers.

Ms. Chibobo has since appealed for an audience with the President to ensure the concerns affecting the sector are addressed amicably.

And Emerald and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia Chairperson Shadrick Mwape has raised concern over increased fees imposed by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).

Mr. Mwape says the increase in licence renewal fees from about K17,000 to approximately K107,000 has made compliance increasingly difficult for many small-scale miners.

He said additional consultancy costs associated with environmental requirements have further increased the financial burden on operators.

Mr. Mwape warned that the cumulative effect of higher fees and compliance costs could force many small-scale miners out of business, resulting in widespread licence losses as operators struggle to meet renewal requirements.

He has questioned the basis for determining the new fees, arguing that the cost structure of small-scale mining operations does not justify such high charges.

Mr. Mwape explained that gemstone mining, particularly emerald extraction, involves significant operational expenses, including the removal of large volumes of waste to recover relatively small quantities of minerals.

He has appealed to President Hichilema to urgently intervene and investigate the fee structure, warning that failure to address the concerns could cripple the sector.

Meanwhile, Federation of Small-Scale Mining Associations of Zambia President Joseph Mwansa says the federation is expected to engage government officials in forthcoming meetings aimed at resolving the outstanding issues.

Ends

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