THE BIG TEAM MUSIC GROUP VOICES FOR RESPONSIBLE MINING IN VUBWI DISTRICT

In Eastern Province, Vubwi District, where Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining sustains many households, Big Team is using music as a powerful tool for awareness and change. The group is made up of three artists, Henry Mhone (stage name Baxter), Ruben Mwale (stage name Leorex), and George Phiri (stage name Geo Brie). United by their passion for music and community development, the trio is committed to promoting responsible mining practices through Music.

Growing up in a mining community, the members of Big Team have seen both the opportunities and dangers that come with gold rushes. They understand that during these periods, miners often face unsafe conditions, accidents and exposure to harmful chemicals such as Mercury. This firsthand experience has shaped their message and purpose.
“We have seen how dangerous mining can be, especially during gold rushes. People rush without thinking about safety. Through music, we want to remind miners that their lives are more important than gold.” Baxter explained. 

Their songs highlight the dangers of mercury use and unsafe mining practices while encouraging miners to adopt safer and more responsible methods. They use relatable language and local sounds to ensure their message connects with the community. 
“Music is powerful because people listen and relate to it. When we sing about safety and protecting the environment, we are speaking directly to our friends, families, and fellow miners.” Leorex Said.

Beyond raising awareness, Big Team is driven by a vision to create music that has a lasting impact on people’s lives. Their goal is not only to educate but also to grow their music career and reach wider audiences.
“Our dream is to continue making music that changes lives. We want to take our message beyond Vubwi and perform on big stages so more people can hear about responsible mining.” Geo Brie shared.
The group also sees their music as a responsibility to their community. They believe artists have a role to play in shaping attitudes and promoting positive change.

“We are part of this community, and we know the risks miners face every day. If our music can help someone choose safety first, then we are fulfilling our purpose.” Baxter added.
“We don’t just want fame. We want our music to have meaning, to educate, and to leave a positive impact on people and future generations.” Leorex emphasised.
Through performances at community events and awareness campaigns, Big Team continues to inspire miners and young people alike. Their music carries messages of safety, environmental protection, and responsibility, while also reflecting their ambition to grow as artists and perform on bigger platforms.
Despite their busy schedules, the trio has found ways to balance their music with their other commitments. Baxter manages his time between performing, running his barbershop, and tending to his small-scale farm. Geo Brie a second year Electrical Engineering Student at Mulungushi University juggles his studies, ensuring neither his education nor his music suffers. 

"Balancing school and music is challenging, especially while pursuing a demanding program in Electrical Engineering. But I stay committed to my music, both my studies and my music drive me to stay focused and disciplined." Geo Brie Said.

Meanwhile, Leorex, still in grade 11, coordinates schoolwork with practice sessions, showing remarkable dedication for someone so young. Together, they prove that passion and discipline can allow them to pursue multiple paths without compromising on any.
Members of Big Team expressed their sincere appreciation to the planetGOLD Zambia Project for its commitment to improving the lives of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Miners and supporting community initiatives. The group commended the project for raising awareness on safer mining practices and protecting miners’ health and the environment. 
They also appreciated the opportunity given to them to perform and use their music as a tool for education and positive change. 
“The planetGOLD Zambia Project has not only helped miners understand safer mining, but it has also given us a platform to showcase our talent and share important messages through music,” said Baxter. 

The group added that the support has motivated them to continue creating impactful music that educates, inspires, and represents their community on bigger platforms.
As emerging artists with a clear purpose, Big Team represents more than entertainment. They are advocates for safety, educators through music, and role models for young people, using their voices to promote responsible mining and build a safer future for their community and beyond.