In a bid to empower local communities, promote economic growth and support responsible mining practices, Ziva Community Initiative (ZCI) has organised a workshop to formalise tin/columbite artisanal and small-scale miners in Plateau State.
The initiative aims to foster an inclusive and transparent mining industry that benefits small-scale miners and contributes to Nigeria’s overall economic development.
The initiative, which seeks to empower miners and enhance their operational capacity, had key stakeholders including representatives from the Plateau State Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Women in Mining Plateau chapter as well as miners from Barkin Ladi and Mangu local government areas.
The event featured presentations on strengthening cooperatives, financial literacy, and enhancing access to financial inclusion.
The lead resource person, Mr. Samme Philips, emphasised the importance of capacity building, collaboration and the need for miners to adhere to regulatory licensing requirements. He encouraged miners to form structured groups to facilitate access to funding, training, and market opportunities.
The second presentation led by Mr. Samuel James Pam focused on financial literacy. He explained the concept of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) and highlighted its benefits, including providing an alternative income source and promoting diversified, improved livelihoods for miners.
The workshop concluded with a question and answer session and the presentation of cooperative certificates to newly formalised artisanal and small-scale mining groups.
The initiative urged the cooperatives to prioritise compliance with government regulations, particularly in light of the recent suspension of mining activities in the region.
Ziva Community Initiative emphasised its commitment to support the growth of artisanal and small-scale miners, empowering local communities, and fostering responsible mining practices.
The organisation continues to advocate for an inclusive, transparent mining industry that benefits miners and contributes to Nigeria’s broader economic development.
In the light of the recent suspension of mining activities on the Plateau, Ziva Community Initiative urged the cooperatives to prioritise adherence to government’s compliance regulation. “Adhering to government compliance is crucial for cooperatives to operate legally, access benefits and enhance their credibility.
“We recognise the critical role that artisanal and small-scale miners play in the country’s mining sector, and we are committed to supporting your growth and development,” the organisation said.
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