Initiative for Climate Action and Development (Icad) has trained community members located close to Kayelekera Uranium Mine at Wiliro in Karonga District on how to effectively identify, document and address grievances arising from mining activities.
The Grievance Engagement and Dialogue Clinic is under Strengthening Transparency, Accountability and Integrity in Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (Esia) Implementation and Oversight in the Mining Sector project.
Icad board member Simeon Nyirenda, speaking on Saturday during the training, said they wanted to help communities understand challenges associated with mining activities and equipping them with skills to engage relevant stakeholders.
“We are equipping community members with knowledge and skills on how they can effectively engage with stakeholders and address issues arising from mining activities in their communities,” he said.
Nyirenda said the training also sought to promote transparency, accountability and community participation in environmental and mining-related issues, particularly in monitoring Esia commitments.
Group village head Mwenechilanga commended Icad for the initiative, saying the training provided the community with guidance on how to lodge complaints arising from mining investments.
“It is unfortunate that investors come to extract resources from our communities while local people feel that they are not benefitting adequately,” he said.
One of the participants, Aida Nyirongo, thanked Icad for the training, saying participants will share the knowledge with other community members.
