THE PLANETGOLD ZAMBIA PROJECT CONDUCTS LANDSCAPE CONSULTATION MEETING IN MPIKA DISTRICT, MUCHINGA PROVINCE

On 17th February, the planetGOLD Zambia Project held a Landscape Consultation Meeting in Mpika District, Muchinga Province. The meeting focused on the landscape approach, a holistic framework for managing land, resources, and mining activities in the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector in Mpika District. This approach seeks to balance economic, social, and environmental objectives across a region, ensuring that mining contributes to sustainable development, protects ecosystems, and empowers local communities, rather than addressing challenges in isolation.

The planetGOLD Zambia Project Communications Officer Mr. Jefferson Kapasa introduced the landscape approach, emphasizing its role in fostering environmental stewardship, sustainable mining, and community ownership. 

Mr. Ignitius Chipela, Senior Mining Engineer from the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development urged miners to prioritise environmental protection and responsible mining practices. 
Mr. Alexander Musesho, representing the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), outlined the Agency’s mandate and urged miners to adopt responsible and environmentally sound mining practices.

The District Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining Technical Committee (DASGM) Chairperson, Mr. Mwape Chiti emphasised the importance of shared responsibility and long-term planning. He noted that Mpika District has the potential to become an industrial hub by 2030, and achieving this vision will require environmental protection, responsible mining and investment in sustainable business activities.

The Landscape Consultation Meeting reinforced the importance of collaboration, environmental stewardship and community ownership in building a sustainable ASGM sector.