Australian companies eye Lufwanyama emeralds

July 24, 2012 | Filed under: Local News | Posted by: web editor

By ALEX NJOVU
FIVE Australian companies have expressed interest in investing in emerald mining in Lufwanyama at a cost of about US$ 20 million.
The investors’ representatives held a meeting at Chief Nkana’s palace on Sunday where they discussed various issues regarding their interest in emerald mining in Lufwanyama.
Emerald Production Watch of Zambia president Musa Kafimbwa said in an interview in Kitwe yesterday that over 5,000 jobs are expected to be created for the local people once the Australian firms start operating.
“Five investors from Australia have expressed interest in investing in emerald mining in Lufwanyama and on Sunday, we held a meeting with them at Chief Nkana’s palace where a lot of issues were discussed,” he said.
Mr Kafimbwa said the investors have indicated that they may start their operations within the course of this year.
He said his association is working with government and other stakeholders in attracting investors that will help to develop the emerald-rich district.
Mr Kafimbwa said it is important that Zambians benefit from the emerald being mined in Lufwanyama.
Mr Kafimbwa also said traditional rulers are happy with the various developmental activities taking place in Lufwanyama.
He said the ongoing re-construction of the Kalulushi- Kalengwe road will help in attracting world-class investors.
Mr Kafimbwa said the emerald sector has the potential to positively contribute to the development process of the country if it is fully supported.
And some Lufwanyama residents said the coming of new investors in Lufwanyama will help to eradicate poverty in various communities in the area.
Doris Besa of Chief Lupuma said it is encouraging that government is working with various stakeholders in bringing investors that will help to create job opportunities for Zambians.
And John Kangwa of Chief Nkana said many young people will be employed in the mines once the Australian investors start their operations.
“We are very happy with the coming of investors in Lufwanyama. We are aware that some Australian investors held a meeting with Chief Nkana on Sunday. It is important that as a country, we continue attracting investors. It is also important that as these investors come in, local people benefit from what God gave us,” Mr Kangwa said.