Africa-Press – Zambia. The UPND Government has authorized mining in the prestigious Lower Zambezi National Park after a protracted legal battle. The move to proceed with the government marks another 360-degree turn by President Hakainde Hichilema’s government on mining in the National Parks.
On 26th January 2014, President Hichilema opposed the decision to allow mining in the Lower Zambezi and promised not to allow the project to proceed if elected President.
But Green Economy and Environment Minister Collins Nzovu revealed in an interview that the controversial project to mine Copper in the game park will proceed but under strict adherence to measures set by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency. Mr. Nzovu said the measures are aimed at limiting damage to the environment to a minimum.
He said with the entire process exhausted and the courts dismissing an appeal to stop the open-pit mine for want of prosecution, the government is only left with the option of monitoring the situation and ensuring the developer operates within strict conditions.
He has however warned that the government will take the necessary decision if its detailed report shows that the mine has failed to adhere to provisions of ZEMA’s Decision Letter.
Mr. Nzovu said if the risk of environmental degradation becomes high, his Ministry will take action. He said strict and adequate conditions are already in place but only lacked enforcement by the previous regime.
Mr. Nzovu said the government has instituted mitigation measures using various provisions from the ZEMA Act and findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment but was quick to mention that mining activities that pollute the environment are not allowed and if allowed, are under strict parameters.
The PF government last year approved the proposal for the Kangaluwi Open Pit Mining Project in Lower Zambezi National Park almost 20 years since an Australian-based company, Zambezi Resources Limited was granted an exploration license delayed by ZEMA’s initial rejection of the proposal, government overriding the agency and subsequent court cases which ended with the project still going ahead.
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