The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development […]

The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has denied reports that it has suspended the allocation of mining tenements at the Kikonge Gold Site in Mufumbwe District, following alleged public backlash over transparency in the allocation process.

This clarification comes after the Ministry recently announced that 222 out of a targeted 674 mining tenements had so far been allocated at Kikonge, nearly a year after government interventions to cancel improper exploration license applications and halt illegal mining activities.

An unconfirmed notice purportedly from the Ministry, seen by the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), has emerged suggesting a suspension of the allocation process, with some sources citing major outcry from locals who felt sidelined.

The notice stated: “This serves to notify all applicants and stakeholders that the allocation exercise for mining tenements at the Kikonge Gold Site, Mufumbwe District, North-Western Province has been suspended with immediate effect. The suspension will remain in force until further notice. You will be duly informed when the exercise is scheduled to resume on-site. Communication regarding the resumption will be issued through your respective groups and official channels. We regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”

However, when contacted by ZBT, Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Kalani Muchima denied any suspension. “No, I can’t confirm because I’ve not received any report with that regard,” said Muchima, despite the source of the notice categorically saying that any official confirmation would have to come from Ministry headquarters.

Muchima, however, was quick to acknowledge concerns about the distribution of tenements, specifically allegations that tenements were being given to people from outside the local area.

He, however, alleged that the tenements have been allocated to cooperatives within the same locality, and those recipients are the same individuals who have undergone training for the project.

He explained that the allocation process is ongoing, with over 600 tenements earmarked for distribution. So far, 256 tenements have been issued, an increase from the previously reported figure of 222.

He further alleged that the distribution has been slow mainly because many cooperative members are away campaigning, despite the team’s continued presence in the area. Announcements have been made to encourage eligible recipients to collect their tenements, but turnout has been low due to these absences.

Muchima dismissed claims that the process has been suspended or that outsiders have been prioritized. He clarified that moving the team to another area, such as Mpika, does not mean a suspension, but rather a continuation of the process in different localities. “The intention is to return and complete the process as soon as cooperative members are available.”

Asked about a timeline for completing the allocations, Muchima noted that there is no fixed deadline, stating, “As long as people are available, we shall finish.”

“The goal is to issue tenements as quickly as possible, contingent on the availability of cooperative members. If all cooperatives present themselves, the process could be completed promptly. Until then, the work will continue as an ongoing process.”