United Mine-workers Union of Zambia (UMUZ), President Wisdom Ngwira has bemoaned the complexities surrounding artisanal mining require a balanced approach that addresses both livelihoods and environmental concerns.

Mr. Ngwira emphasizes that formalizing artisanal mining through licensing and regulation could provide a potential solution to small scale miners popularly known as jerabos.

He notes that this approach would enable the government to monitor and regulate mining activities, ensuring environmental protection while also providing miners with legitimate livelihoods.

He adds that providing alternative livelihoods or economic opportunities could help reduce the reliance on unregulated mining.