279 HOUSEHOLDS IN KALUMBILA FACE DISPLACEMENT FOR LUMWANA COPPER MINE EXPANSION.

 

An estimated 279 households in Mwanaute, Kamisengo, and Lwamizambo communities of Kalumbila District, North-Western Province, are slated for displacement to facilitate the expansion of Lumwana Copper Mine. 

The expansion project, while aiming to elevate Lumwana Mine to a leading global copper producer, raises concerns about the impact on local communities and their environment.

A recent fact-finding mission by CTPD and ZLA revealed anxieties among affected communities regarding the proposed compensation by Lumwana Copper Mine. 

 They believe the compensation is insufficient to address the consequences of displacement on their livelihoods and the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, concerns were raised about inconsistencies in the resettlement action plan.

 Some households are being engaged individually, while others with multiple landholdings face the prospect of merged compensation, potentially jeopardizing their land rights.

"We acknowledge the mining sector's contribution to Zambia's economic development and global climate action," stated Mr. Isaac Mwaipopo, Executive Director of CTPD.

 "However, it is crucial that the mine's expansion adheres to national and international legal standards, ensuring the protection of affected communities' rights and interests."

Mr. Mwaipopo emphasizes the need to achieve a balance between the growth of the mining sector and the well-being and safety of local communities.

Mr. Patrick Musole, Executive Director of ZLA, offered critical advice to the affected households: "We urge you to carefully read and understand the resettlement action plan agreement before signing. This will help address any future concerns if your rights and interests are not fully met."

 He further urged the Mining Company to ensure that the agreements were translated in the language the affected communities can read and understand to ensure that people understand what they are signing for.

CTPD and ZLA have committed to supporting the Communities, while engaging the Government and the Mining Company to ensure that the displaced communities are adequately compensated, so that their standard of living is better that before their lives were interrupted by the displacement.

This is contained in a statement made available to the media by CTPD and Zambia Land Alliance.