NGO Launches Manganese Revenue Tracking and Land Restoration Project in Chief Chimese's Chiefdom

MUVI Editorial Team

Care for Nature Zambia has rolled out a project to track manganese revenue and restore degraded land in Chief Chimese's chiefdom in Mansa District, Luapula Province, an area the organisation says hosts the majority of the district's mines.

The initiative was announced during a courtesy call on His Royal Highness Chief Chimese of the Ushi-speaking people in Mansa District. Care for Nature Zambia Executive Director Nsama Musonda Kearns said the project aims to work with stakeholders to bury trenches and promote agroecology, alongside efforts to strengthen transparency in how manganese revenue from the chiefdom is managed. Kearns said the chiefdom's abundant manganese resources make it a priority area for the project, and described traditional leaders as vital partners in driving sustainable development and ensuring revenue transparency.

The project is funded by the Southern Africa Trust and implemented by Care for Nature Zambia. Kearns said community engagement is essential to the long-term success of environmental restoration efforts in the area.

Chief Chimese welcomed the initiative, saying he supports all efforts to develop his chiefdom responsibly. He said mining activities must benefit local communities and respect environmental regulations, and expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with civil society organisations, affirming his commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure the project delivers tangible benefits.

Care for Nature Zambia reaffirmed its dedication to a green and sustainable future in solidarity with local communities.