The planetGOLD Zambia Project Hosts DASGM Committees Orientation and Formation in Chipata, Eastern Province

On 21–22 August, the planetGOLD Zambia Project successfully hosted the District Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (DASGM) Committees Orientation and Formation in Eastern Province, Chipata. The meeting brought together representatives from government ministries and departments across Nyimba, Lusangazi, and Vubwi districts.

The Guest of Honour, Chipata District Commissioner MS. Elida Banda, opened the meeting with remarks emphasizing the transformative potential of the DASGM Technical Committee. She highlighted that the committee is not merely an administrative body but a platform that brings together voices from across ministries and communities to ensure that mining practices are safe, transparent, and aligned with both national policies and international obligations.

Chipata Mayor, Mr. George Mwanza, welcomed the initiative, noting that the committee provides a timely platform for collaboration among government institutions and mining communities. He emphasized that the committee will ensure local voices and expertise inform national reforms while empowering communities to actively participate in shaping their development.
During the meeting, planetGOLD Zambia Project Manager Ms. Abigail Mwailenge introduced the project to delegates and shared key updates, including the improvement of gender representation in the ASGM sector from 17% to 22.31%, based on a recent contextual study conducted by the project.

The chairmanship of the committees was officially handed over to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development in Chipata, with chairpersons from district local authorities selected to lead the respective committees. This approach allows for the decentralisation of the committees.
The establishment of the DASGM Technical Committees that sit with the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development is expected to:

•    Support legal and policy reforms in the ASGM sector
•    Enhance coordination between stakeholders
•    Promote transparency, sustainability, and community empowerment
•    Advance formalisation and environmental safeguards

The formation of these committees represents a significant milestone in strengthening governance, collaboration, and responsible mining practices across the Eastern Province ASGM sector. Through the DASGM Technical Committees, planetGOLD Zambia continues to support the formalisation of artisanal and small-scale gold mining while empowering communities and promoting sustainable sector development.