Insiza tightens rules for mining operations

Mining companies operating in Insiza district will now be subjected to stricter compliance requirements after the Insiza Rural District Council gazetted new by-laws compelling all prospecting, exploration and mining right holders to submit certified documentation of their operations.

The Statutory Instrument 166 of 2025 - Insiza RDC (Mining and Mineral Panning) By-laws, 2025 - comes as the district continues to experience a surge in mineral activity, particularly gold and lithium extraction. Authorities say the regulatory framework is designed to enhance environmental accountability, improve monitoring, and ensure that mining development benefits local communities.

Under the new regulations, miners are required to submit certified copies of their operating licences, environmental impact assessment reports, environmental management plans or EMA-issued certificates. They must also implement compulsory mine closure, rehabilitation measures and file quarterly environmental monitoring reports with the Environmental Management Agency.

"All holders of prospecting, exploration and mining rights operating in the council area shall submit certified copies of their licences to Council," reads part of the by-law.

The council will now treat commencement of mining operations without providing EIA documentation as an offence, attracting penalties outlined in the second schedule of the instrument.

Developers undertaking projects requiring an environmental and social impact assessment must consult the council throughout the process, involve it in public meetings and disclose the details of engaged consultants.

The by-laws also establish an Environmental Degradation Fund, financed through fees and levies from miners. The fund will support site restoration, and in cases where rehabilitation fails to take place within six months, the council may step in and recover costs from the responsible property holder.

Insiza RDC officers - working with the mining commissioner, police or EMA officials - have been granted authority to conduct inspections to verify compliance. Operators must also pay standard royalties, levies and licence fees, while those wishing to construct elution plants must apply for approval.

To improve transparency, environmental impact assessment reports submitted to council will be made available for public viewing during official working hours.