Environmental Justice Tops Agenda at Lufwanyama Mining Indaba
Lufwanyama District has successfully hosted a mining indaba that brought together key stakeholders, with strong calls for environmental justice and greater community empowerment.
The forum, held under the theme “Mining with the People, for the People: Reclaiming Local Benefits in Lufwanyama,” was organised by Caritas Zambia, Transparency International Zambia, and the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ), with support from ActionAid and the Carter Centre Foundation.
Speaking at the event, Caritas Zambia Head of Programmes, Edmond Kangamunhazi, said the indaba sought to foster dialogue among mining companies, communities, civil society, and government. He explained that the forum provided a platform to explore how mining could deliver tangible benefits for local people while reviewing practical recommendations to enhance its positive impact.
“The indaba has been crucial in amplifying community voices and assessing where mining companies are succeeding, and where improvements remain necessary,” said Kangamunhazi.
Centre for Environmental Justice SheRise Project Manager, Dalitso Mvula, highlighted the organisation’s work in addressing pressing environmental and social issues linked to mining. She outlined projects designed to empower women as environmental rights defenders, while tackling challenges such as water pollution in the Kafue River, loss of aquatic life, and the impacts of mining on livestock.
Mvula stressed the consequences of water contamination, which force women to travel long distances in search of clean water. “This has a direct impact on daily life and livelihoods, and it underlines the urgent need for collective action to ensure environmental justice,” she said.
The initiative also addresses gender-based violence and the underrepresentation of women in local leadership, with Mvula calling for a stronger commitment to sustainable development that safeguards community health and welfare.
Lufwanyama District Commissioner, Justin Malikwa, who officiated at the event, urged stakeholders to collaborate in harnessing the district’s natural resources for inclusive growth. He expressed optimism about Lufwanyama’s future aspirations, including its potential progression to city status.
“The indaba is a vital platform for tackling environmental degradation, social challenges, and governance issues associated with mining,” said Malikwa. “We must ensure that mining contributes not only to economic growth but also to the empowerment of our people and the protection of our environment.”
The Centre for Environmental Justice Communications Unit stated that the indaba underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue, environmental sustainability, and community-centred solutions in shaping the future of mining in Lufwanyama.
