By PETER SICHALI
GOVERNMENT should invest in geological mapping and surveys to enable potential investors make informed decisions, a mining expert Danny Mwila has said.
Mr Mwila said it was important for Government through the Ministry of Mines to carryout countrywide mapping of minerals and other resources such as oil to attract investors.
“Government should through the Geological Survey Department do geological mapping in some areas that have not been geologically mapped. It is very difficult for investors to know what mineral deposits are in the area.
“If all the areas are geologically mapped and investors are able to access this data from the Geological Survey Department, it will help investors to make an informed decision,” Mr Mwila said.
He said in as much as Government could not engage in exploration works, it was important to map areas for various deposits and provide surface information for potential investors.
Meanwhile, Mr Mwila urged Government to continue withdrawing dormant mining and exploration licences.
He said there were many firms that were holding licences for speculation purposes without carrying out any works.
Mr Mwila said Government should scrutinise licence applicants to ensure that only serious prospectors were awarded licences.
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