Ministry shuts down gold mine in Zomba

Minister of Mining Monica Chang’anamuno has stopped alluvial gold mining activities in Traditional Authority (T/A) M’biza in Zomba District.

Her order follows reports of alleged exploitation at the site and mining without proper documents.

Speaking on Tuesday after a consultative meeting with officials from Zomba and Chiradzulu district councils as well as community members from T/A M’biza, Chang’anamuno said her ministry received reports about child labour, sexual abuse, labour exploitation and other social ills happening at the site.

She said most of the people engaging in mining were illegal miners and foreigners without licences.

“After visiting the site and seriously considering all issues I order immediate closure of mining activities in Zomba and anyone found doing any mining activity henceforth, will face the wrath of the law,” said Chanag’anamuno.

She further said it was time to regulate the mining industry so that the country benefits from its mineral deposits.

“Mineral exploration is a serious and sensitive issue that needs to be handled with care. As long as I am the minster, I will not accept foreigners siphoning our minerals and no more of illegal mining in Malawi,” said the minister.

Sub-Traditional Authority (ST/A) Idana, whose area has been heavily damaged due to mining activities, commended the minister for closing the gold mine.

She said: “A lot of immoral activities were happening at the site and people’s land was being damaged due to mining

“We support the decision and we will ensure that no one is found mining gold until proper procedures have been followed.”

Besides Zomba, illegal gold mining also takes place in Namizimu Forest in Mangochi District. 

According to the Mining Act, only registered miners are allowed to do mining activities within a specified place.