NFC Mining fails to comply with the conditions, ordered to cease operations

NFCA intends to develop and operate the Southeast Ore body project located on Kitwe-Chingola Road in Chambishi area, Kalulushi district. The project involves mining and processing of the copper ore to concentrate stage.

ZEMA Spokesperson Irene Chipili in a statement issued to QFM News says ZEMA has established that NFCA has failed to comply with the conditions of the Decision Letter issued in September, 2012, relating to preparation of an approved comprehensive Resettlement Plan (RAP) for affected parties by the project.

Ms Chipili says the Resettlement Plan was to include a complete inventory of affected households and agriculture fields, land, structures, site local plan and compensation.

She adds that NFCA was further required to initiate an open dialogue and conflict resolution system with the affected people.

Ms Chipili says the consequence of the suspension of the Decision Letter is that all operations or activities at the project site must be ceased with the exemption of activities that impinge on safety of the mine such as dewatering until such a time that the company will comply with the requirements stipulated in the Decision Letter.

She says failure to adhere to this directive can result in cancellation of the said Decision Letter or any other action tenable at law.