Government Gives Illegal Miners Until November 18 to Leave Muchinga

Government has ordered illegal miners operating in Muchinga Province to vacate mining sites voluntarily by November 18, 2026, warning that the Zambia Army will move in to remove those who remain between November 18 and 22.

The directive follows growing concerns over environmental destruction, water pollution and deaths associated with unregulated gold mining.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ consultative meeting in Mpika, Muchinga Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Grant Chisapa said illegal mining activities have severely damaged the environment, including contaminating the Kanchibiya, Kanyelele and Munenshi rivers.

He stressed that President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration will not tolerate illegal mining and that all operators must obtain the necessary licences and comply with safety and environmental regulations.

The Minerals Regulation Commission also warned that artisanal mining is reserved for Zambian citizens under the Minerals Regulation Act of 2024.

Commission representative Moolela Malfred said foreign nationals and companies cannot operate in artisanal mining licence areas without the required approval.

He further urged suppliers of mining equipment to ensure their machinery is not being used to support illegal operations.

Traditional leaders have welcomed the Government’s intervention, with Chief Mukwikile of Shiwang’andu District saying communities have long complained about illegal miners damaging land and polluting rivers.

The planned operation is expected to target illegal mining activities in Mpika and Shiwang’andu, as Government pushes for a safer, more regulated mining sector that protects communities and the environment.