Indian mining firm invests $100 million in emeralds

By ALEX NJOVU

 
EMERALD and Semi Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia (ESMAZ) general secretary Victor Kalesha says an Indian mining firm, Earthstone Resources Limited, has invested over US$100 million in the mining of emerald stones and manganese in Zambia.
Mr Kalesha said the gemstone industry is growing at a fast rate and that it has continued attracting both local and foreign investors who are creating job opportunities for Zambians.
He said in an interview in Kitwe that Earthstone Resources Limited has also continued conducting exploration of minerals in Lufwanyama and that the mining firm has so far employed more than 80 local people.
“I have been working hand in hand with Earthstone Resources mining company for the past four months now. They have invested US$100 million in the mining of manganese in Mansa, emerald and iron. They have employed 45 people in Mansa and about 35 workers in Lufwanyama, exploration works have also continued.
“The gemstone industry is attracting massive investment and job opportunities for our people are being created, especially for the youths. The good investment environment and policies that are being implemented by government are contributing to our sector to grow very well,” Mr Kalesha said.
He said his association is happy that the sector has continued recording success and called on Government and other stakeholders to rally behind sectors which are contributing positively to the development process of the country.
Mr Kalesha revealed that Kagem Mining Company Limited recently auctioned its emeralds in London at a cost of about US$21 million.
He said the sector has the potential to contribute positively to the development of the country once it is fully developed.
Mr Kalesha said the gemstone industry is one of the sectors in Zambia reducing unemployment levels in various communities, especially on the Copperbelt.
He called on stakeholders including the business community to work hand in hand with his association in finding solutions to problems facing the small-scale miners.
Mr Kalesha challenged relevant authorities to encourage small-scale mine owners by touring their mines to familiarise themselves with their problems.
“We have noticed that sometimes when people come to visit or tour mines in Lufwanyama, they just go to those that are already established, the big ones, without visiting small-scale mines which are struggling. The small-scale mine owners need to be motivated because they are also creating job opportunities for Zambians,” he said.
Mr Kalesha said it is unfortunate that most small-scale miners do not have proper equipment for their daily operations.