Tembo Challenges Journalists to Dig Deeper into Mining Sector

SALIMA — Minister of Mining Thoko Tembo has challenged journalists to research and understand mining issues better to ensure Malawians receive accurate information about the country’s mineral resources.

Tembo said this on Tuesday during a media training workshop on mining and minerals-related matters in Salima.

He said Malawians deserve reliable information to enable them to make informed decisions about the management of the country’s minerals.

“Malawians deserve to know exactly what is happening in the mining sector. They need relevant information so that they can make informed decisions on the direction the country should take,” Tembo said.

He said mining activities are expanding, with gold, rare earths and gemstone projects among those currently attracting attention.

“What we are doing at the moment is to ensure that we have the right registration and regulations in place. Once that is done, we should move to ensuring that our minerals benefit the people of Malawi,” he said.

Tembo expressed concern over revenue losses through artisanal miners who sell gold to smugglers. He said government is working with the Ministry of Trade to organise artisanal miners into cooperatives and provide equipment.

The minister also said banks and other financiers are being engaged to support miners.

He urged journalists to highlight the sector’s contribution to job creation and foreign exchange generation while providing balanced coverage.

Meanwhile, Acting Director General of the Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), Loyd Muhara, said mining is an important sector of Malawi’s economy.

“There is a need for the public to understand the challenges facing the sector, including misinformation and issues surrounding mining licences,” Muhara said.

He urged the media to help educate the public on mining licensing, regulation and the work of the MMRA.

Malawi’s mineral resources include rare earths, rutile, graphite, lithium, niobium, bauxite, nickel, uranium, limestone, coal, iron and gold.

Major mining projects include Kayelekera, Kangankunde and Kasiya.