It has been discovered that many people in Chief Kawinga’s area in Machinga District, have resorted to illegal gold mining in the Nkhande River. During a visit to the site, individuals, including children, were seen digging large pits in search of gold, which they then sell to local buyers.

One of the miners, Marriam James, has explained that she engages in gold mining as a means to escape poverty, with earnings ranging between K20,000 and K50,000 each time she makes a sale.

Andrew Kaitano Hamuza, the Director of Environmental Affairs in Machinga, expressed concern today about the widespread nature of this activity in the district, noting that it is occurring in areas under more than five chiefs, causing significant damage to mountains, forests, and rivers.

Economist Arthur Ngwende stated that poor enforcement of mining laws is costing the country substantial revenue opportunities. He urged the government to assist local buyers in purchasing gold directly, instead of leaving the practice to private traders, in order to prevent smuggling and better harness the benefits of mining.

ZodiakOnline