CHUNYA District Commissioner Mbaraka Batenga has urged chemical users to strictly adhere to safety regulations in order to mitigate the risks and harmful effects associated with improper handling.

Batenga made the call here at the weekend during opening of a training session on safe chemical management organised by the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) Southern Highlands office. 

“Chemicals are widely used in mining and mineral processing and they must be handled and stored with the utmost care to prevent harm to users, animals and the environment,” he said.

He commended GCLA for organising the training, recognising the vital role mining plays in the country’s economic development.

He also encouraged the authority to continue providing educational programmes, noting that many stakeholders across various sectors are still involved in chemical-related activities.

Elias Mulima, GCLA Southern Highlands Zone Manager, urged participants to become ambassadors of chemical safety within their communities. He also invited those unable to attend the session to participate in future ones as trainings are regular.

“We will continue offering training sessions to ensure that chemicals are used safely, protecting both users and surrounding communities from potential harm,” he said.

Omary Hamisi, representative from Small-Scale Miners Association in Chunya, expressed gratitude to GCLA for equipping them with crucial knowledge on safe chemical practices.

He highlighted the valuable insights gained on chemical regulations, safety symbols and proper storage and handling of hazardous substances.

GCLA was established by the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority Act No. 8 of 2016 and became operational in June 2022. It is tasked with managing and controlling production, importation, transportation, exportation, storage, sale and disposal of chemicals as well as provision of forensic laboratory services.

Its core functions include ensuring safety and quality of agricultural and industrial products, conducting laboratory analyses for cases involving toxicology and DNA and offering expert advice to the government on forensic science matters such as illicit drugs, toxicology and environmental management.