The Zambia Enviromental Management Agency (ZEMA) has ordered the suspension of the South East Ore Body Project for NFC Africa Mining Corporation Plc in Chambishi area, Kalulushi District.All operations or activities at the project site are to end with the exemption of activities that impinge on safety of the mine such as dewatering until such a time that the company will comply with the requirements stipulated in the Decision Letter.
Below is the Full press statement
Suspension of the South East Ore Body Project for NFC Africa Mining Corporation Plc in Chambishi area, Kalulushi District
Following an environmental audit conducted in November, 2013, Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has suspended the Decision Letter issued to NFC Africa Mining Corporation Plc for the South East Ore Body. NFCA intends to develop and operate the Southeast Ore body project located on Kitwe-Chingola Road in Chambishi area, Kalulushi district. The project involves mining and processing of the copper ore to concentrate stage.
ZEMA has established that NFCA has failed to comply with the conditions of the Decision Letter issued in September, 2012, relating to preparation of an approved comprehensive Resettlement Plan (RAP) for affected parties by the project. The RAP was to include a complete inventory of affected households and agriculture fields, land, structures, site local plan and compensation. NFCA was further required to initiate an open dialogue and conflict resolution system with the affected people.
In view of the issues raised above, ZEMA has suspended the Decision Letter issued to NFCA. The consequence of the suspension is that all operations or activities at the project site must be ceased with the exemption of activities that impinge on safety of the mine such as dewatering until such a time that the company will comply with the requirements stipulated in the Decision Letter. Failure to adhere to this directive can result in cancellation of the said Decision Letter or any other action tenable at law.
The Agency’s mandate as provided in the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011 is to ensure that developmental activities are implemented in a sustainable manner. All projects are approved subject to conditions and ZEMA’s decision can be withdrawn without notice should a developer fail to comply with laid down conditions and commitments. All industries are therefore reminded of their responsibility of ensuring compliance to environmental and any relevant legislation in Zambia.
Issued by: Irene G. Lungu-Chipili
ZEMA Spokesperson
Date: 4th December, 2013.
EXCELLENT. THANK YOU ZEMA. ZAMBIA IS THE ONLY COUNRTY WE HAVE. KEEP IT UP.
I like the way ZEMA conducts its business-serious that’s good. But for a moment now what’s the status quo on the chisola dam construction in Chief Musele’s area by First Quantum minerals.? The Mines Safety Department should also work like ZEMA
Si banadyemo
YOU MEAN MMD KUDYAMO MENTALITY ?