"In 2005, Lumwana Mining Company (LMC) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the local chiefdoms. The MoU allowed for LMC to commence mining operations based on the agreed MoU and Mining License issued by the Zambian government. In addition, exploration permits were granted for five additional areas, all of which are covered under the MoU. North Dome and Lubwe Dome were amongst such exploration areas and were void of any population or economic activity at time of the 2005 MoU. LMC targeted these for exploration in 2021 and beyond. In the preceding years, these areas have become populated based on traditional land allocations by the chiefdoms.

Upon the commencement of the 2021 exploration campaign, the community subsequently raised their concerns, based on fear that they may lose their property, relevant crops and livelihoods. Exploration ceased when these complaints were raised. Broad consultation was undertaken to inform the community of existing exploration permits included under the MoU, that LMC was exercising its rights to explore these areas, and provide detailed explanations of the exploration process and that these exploration activities would not require acquisition of land. LMC undertook thorough consultation and outreach and subsequently resolved any community concerns and exploration continued. Consultation included information regarding our grievance mechanism. LMC will continue to engage closely with our communities to ensure they are aware of our exploration permit areas, our planned works and activities. No decision has been made regarding any potential mining of these areas, and a thorough Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and associated consultation will take place at the appropriate time, should the project advance."