Mine law change mooted

THE Mining Ministry is prioritising a review of the Mining (Safety) Act (1977) with amendments to allow female engineers and miners to work underground, says Mining Minister Muguwa Dilu.
“Times have changed and we need to change with it,” he said.
Dilu said he has spoken with the Mineral Resource Authority, Department of Minerals, and industry for input on policies which would be brought to Parliament.”
He said the amendment would allow women workers to enter underground areas. “It will create employment for women.”
He said the passing of the Mine and Works Bill (2024) would improve, update and adopt internationally accepted safety practices.
Priority areas include the mining regulatory framework, mineral data repository hub, alluvial mining policy, key state priorities, Porgera gold mine achieving full production capacity by July, special mining lease for the Wafi-Golpu project, Frieda River project and expansion of the K92 mine.