Senior Chief Muchinda Kankomba Welala III of Serenje District has appointed an independent Committee of Trustees, chaired by Rafael Lesa, to oversee all land audit and mining matters within the manganese-rich Muchinda Chiefdom.
This follows rampant land grabbing and illegal mining necessitated by the vacuum created when there was no chief for the last 14 years.
This move will enhance transparency and accountability in managing land and mineral resources in Muchinda Chiefdom.
According to an official letter dated 11th July 2025, the Committee has been mandated to represent the Chiefdom in discussions and actions required for the effective management and oversight of land and mining affairs.
The Committee, comprised of experts from the legal profession, media, and astute entrepreneurs, will operate under a set of constitution, rules, and regulations provided by the Chiefdom.
He has since appointed Raphael Lesa, Paul Bipe, Wezi Mwandila, Allan Chishimba, and Richard Chintu.
Others are Rayford Phiri, Stevenson Kaunda, Bangwe Naviley, and William Mbuzi.
Meanwhile, Committee Chairperson Raphael Lesa has thanked the Traditional Leader for appointing him.
