By NAMO PHIRI
Mining expert Edward Simukonda has called for increased budgetary allocation towards artisanal mining for the sector to realise its full potential.
Government allocated K50 million to the artisanal and small-scale mining sub- sector in the 2023 national budget.
Mr Simukonda said the K50 million budgetary allocation to artisanal and small-scale mining sub-sector is inadequate and has urged Government to increase funding going forward.
He said the artisanal mining has a great potential to contribute to the country’s economy hence the need for government to pay more attention to the sector.
Mr Simukonda said if well handled, Government can derive substantial benefits from the sector, which at the moment is fraught with challenges.
“Budgetary allocation to the artisanal mining sector is very, very important. It is just as important as any other sector in the country.
So putting in a lot for artisanal miners is important because they contribute massively to the GDP of the country. And I think it is very important that something is done about the current situation where by they are limited to resources and they are unable to perform the way they need to.
“They are unable to get equipment, they are unable to mobilise themselves and they keep on going round circles. I think it is very important that the government looks into this situation,” stated Mr Simukonda.
