NO NEW DECISION ON LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK

By Etambuyu Katota:

Green Economy and Environment Minister, Collins Nzovu says no new decision has been made by the UPND administration in relation to mining in the Lower Zambezi National Park.

Mr. Nzovu says the decision by Mwembeshi Resources Limited to conduct mining was granted by the PF government.

He says decisions taken by previous governments are binding and legacy issues have to be addressed.

The minister has assured the nation that there is no cause for alarm as there is no new decision that has been made but simply following processes required.

Mr. Nzovu says the current government is still committed to ensuring that all commitments made, including greening the economy are adhered to.

He however says this has to be done in a legal manner and government will therefore not interfere with any institution of governance.

Mr. Nzovu says government will ensure it exhausts all proper channels to secure a resolution in line with its commitment to the sustainable management of Zambia’s resources.

In March 2012, Mwembeshi Resources Limited conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment to undertake Large-Scale Mining activities in the Lower Zambezi National Park.

The proposed project was considered and rejected by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency – ZEMA on August 31, 2012.

Mwembeshi Resources Limited however appealed against the rejection in accordance with the provisions of section 116 of the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011.

On 17th January, 2014, the then Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Harry Kalaba, allowed the appeal thereby overturning the decision of ZEMA.

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