Authorities wary ofillegal lime mining
Authorities in Balaka District have raised concerns over increased limestone mining activities, causing deforestation and land degradation.
A visit to Chiendausiku, one of the mining sites, established that mining has become a serious business for surrounding communities, resulting in significant land degradation and deforestation.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, Balaka district assistant forestry officer Alick Sonkheza said most hills have been left bare due to cutting down of trees for firewood used to break stones for lime mining.
He said: “This is the reason why the district experiences dry spells and is easily affected by floods. We are, however, calling upon different stakeholders to intervene as the matter has gone out of hand.
“People who are destroying the forests are those who have nothing to do to earn an income; hence, we need to empower them.”
Sonkheza further raised concerns that the mining is being carried out illegally.
“We have observed a significant rise in unauthorised mining operations. These activities pose a serious threat to our natural resources and the well-being of our communities,” he said.
A miner Lizi Adam said he depends on limestone mining to support his six-member family.
“I started mining lime a long time ago. From this business, I get money for food and school fees for my children. I know this practice endangers the environment, but how am I going to start a new business without capital?” he said.
Meanwhile, Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi Balaka Chapter official Deborah Sinclair said they are intensifying awareness campaign targeting people surrounding Chiendausiku hills and other parts on the dangers of illegal mining.
Besides lime, some people are illegally mining gold in some districts in the country
