On Monday, Jânio Correia Victor, Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, emphasized the need to enhance interaction between the Ministry, Provincial Government, and municipal administrations to combat illegal mineral exploitation, which poses risks to the environment.
This statement was made during a visit to Sumbe, Cuanza-Sul province, where he met with Governor Job Capapinha.
During the visit, Victor outlined the purpose of the assessment focused on the current state of mineral resource exploration, particularly quartz ore.
He highlighted the importance of fostering institutional collaboration with local authorities to monitor sustainable mining practices that benefit the community in accordance with legal frameworks.
Victor also presented existing legislation governing mining exploration, outlined concession procedures, and clarified the roles of the Government and municipal administrations in managing exploration territories, emphasizing the social responsibilities companies must uphold in these areas.
He stressed the necessity for improved collaboration between the Government and the Ministry regarding the inspection and monitoring of mining sites.
While he refrained from disclosing specific figures on illegal mining activities in Cuanza-Sul, he noted that two companies are engaged in responsible quartz mining in the province.
To mitigate tax evasion and environmental degradation caused by illegal extraction methods, Victor advocated for stronger relationships with local authorities to enhance protective measures for mineral resource sites.
Governor Job Capapinha considered the meeting timely, as it provided a platform for institutional interaction with the Ministry of Mineral Resources, informing local authorities about sector operations. This collaboration aims to facilitate inspection and monitoring mechanisms to address infractions committed by mining companies at the local level.
The meeting was attended by provincial vice-governors, national directors from the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas, and administrators from the municipalities of Sumbe, Conda, Amboim, and Seles.
