Five miners rescued alive after 17 days trapped underground at Mumbwa gold mine

Five small-scale miners who spent 17 days trapped underground at Matala Gold Mine in Mumbwa District have been brought to the surface alive, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has confirmed.

The five are now receiving treatment at Mumbwa District Hospital, where doctors are assessing their condition following more than two weeks below ground. The government has welcomed the news and joined Zambians in giving thanks for the preservation of their lives.

However, the operation is not yet over. Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr Hapenga Kabeta has disclosed that preliminary assessments indicate three more miners may still be trapped underground. Rescue teams remain on site and efforts are continuing to ensure every individual is accounted for.

The government has commended the emergency responders, local authorities and other stakeholders involved in the rescue, citing their dedication and commitment in carrying out one of the country's most difficult underground recovery operations in recent memory.

Officials have also used the moment to underscore the importance of safe, formal and environmentally responsible mining. Compliance with established regulations and safety standards, the Ministry said, is essential to safeguarding lives, protecting communities and preserving the environment.

Small-scale operators, in particular, have been urged to secure proper legal authorisation and work within regulated frameworks. The Ministry confirmed it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as rescue efforts progress for the three miners still believed to be underground.