Kyungu Demands Tangible Benefits for Malawians from Kayelekera Uranium Mine

Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga and Chitipa has urged the new operators of the Kayelekera Uranium Mine, Lotus Africa Limited, to ensure that the people of Malawi—especially those in the host communities—benefit meaningfully from the country’s natural resources.

Speaking on Wednesday during a high-level visit by the Minister of Mining, Hon. Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma, to the Kayelekera Mine site, Paramount Chief Kyungu emphasized that it is no longer acceptable for foreign companies to extract minerals while local communities remain in poverty.

“As a nation, we must stop the trend of watching others benefit from our land while our people get nothing but dust,” said Kyungu. “The people of Karonga and Chitipa must see real, visible change—jobs, infrastructure, education, and healthcare—as a result of mining activities in this area.”

The Kayelekera Mine, located in Karonga District, is set to resume uranium production under Lotus Africa Limited after nearly a decade of dormancy. The mine was previously operated by Paladin Africa Limited, which placed the project on care and maintenance in 2014 due to a global decline in uranium prices.

Minister Ng’oma, who toured the site to assess progress, assured the Paramount Chief and the surrounding communities that the government is committed to ensuring that mining operations in Malawi contribute to inclusive development.

“This government believes in responsible mining. We are engaging operators to ensure compliance with environmental standards and community development agreements,” said Minister Ng’oma. “We want our people to benefit from these resources—not just through jobs, but through sustainable community investments.”

Lotus Africa Limited has indicated plans to restart production in 2025, with preliminary works and community consultations already underway. Company representatives say they are committed to transparency and local engagement.

“We understand the importance of building trust with the communities,” said a company spokesperson. “Our goal is not only to revive the mine but also to contribute to the local economy through employment, procurement, and social development initiatives.”

Paramount Chief Kyungu also called for continuous dialogue and accountability, warning against exploitative practices of the past.

“I urge both the government and the company to be open with the people. Come back and report what is happening. Don’t just come during groundbreakings or disasters,” he said.

The visit to Kayelekera marks a renewed focus by the government on revitalizing Malawi’s mining sector as a key pillar of economic growth. The Ministry of Mining is currently reviewing policies to ensure local participation, environmental protection, and equitable distribution of benefits from mining ventures.