North-Western Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, Amos Kapi, has welcomed government’s move through the Zambia Army to restore order at Kikonge gold mine in Mufumbwe District. Mr Kapi said while some informal enterprises may experience temporary setbacks following the clampdown on illegal miners, the broader economic and social benefits far outweigh the short-lived disruptions. He explained that the continued presence of illegal miners was linked to violent, illicit and uncontrolled activities that undermine public safety, law and order and sustainable development.
Mr Kapi further noted that the operation will strengthen government oversight, improve compliance with mining regulations, and safeguard national resources. He stressed that illegal mining has deprived the government of much-needed revenue as such activities fall outside the tax net. Meanwhile, Mufumbwe Youth Movement chairperson, Silverster Lumbwe , also welcomed the intervention, stating that it will restore order and curb illicit behaviour at the site.
Mr Lumbwe explained that local youths, despite forming cooperatives and receiving artisanal mining licences, have been unable to benefit due to lawlessness by illegal miners. He thanked the Zambia Army for conducting the operation peacefully without injuries or loss of life. And Solwezi-based youth, John Kimba, described the removal of illegal miners as a decisive and commendable intervention.
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He said illegal mining deprives the country of substantial revenue, undermines lawful economic activities and fuels illicit trade. Mr Kimba added that the area had attracted illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries, worsening the situation and commended government’s timely efforts to curb the vice.
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