• The suspension is imposed from 23rd February 2022 to 23rd March, 2022.
• The Ministry wants to undertake an audit for mining rights.
• Internal reorientation for members of staff will also be undertaken.

Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has with immediate effect suspended issuance of mining licenses for 30 days.
Speaking at a media briefing, Minister in charge Paul Kabuswe said the suspension is with effect from today 23rd February 2022 to 23rd March, 2022.
Mr. Kabuswe said during the suspension, the Ministry will undertake an audit for mining rights, a work study on processes at the mining cadaster department and internal reorientation for members of staff in order to clean the system from corruption allegations.
He stated that this follows alleged abuse of the mining rights administration system of the mining cadaster department which has led to allegations of corruption and serious damage to the reputation of the department and the Ministry.
“Due to the technical nature of this assignment, the work will be undertaken by a cross function internal team of officers with high integrity and competence from internal Audit, Mines Department, Mine Safety and Mining Cadaster,” he stated.
Mr. Kabuswe added that the suspension may be extended for a month if the assignment will not be fully completed by 23rd March, 2022.