The Emeralds and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia-ESMAZ- has asked government to consider investing in associations and federations in the sector.
ESMAZ President Victor Kalesha says this is because the associations will in turn help in bridging the gaps that exist between government and small and artisanal mines.
Mr. Kalesha in an interview with Phoenix News has cited Botswana which has excelled in mining of semi-precious stones because it has adopted this model of investing in associations and federations.
He says government which currently does not monitor what happens with the country's mineral resources will not need to struggle to get information on developments on the ground as these associations and federations will provide that information.
Mr. Kalesha says the associations are well vested with information on various mining activities and grassroot level which include mineral deposits.
PHOENIX NEWS