Ministry of Mining has raised concerns about the escalating trend of illegal mining in the country involving both communities and unlicensed companies.
Ministry of Mining Principal Secretary responsible for regulations Martin Kaluluma Phiri expressed the concerns on Wednesday during a two-day meeting held in Mangochi District.
The meeting which, among others, brought together council officials, politicians, civil society organisations and community leaders was held under the theme: “Unlocking Malawi’s Potential: Sustainable Mining as a Pathway to Inclusive Development”.
Phiri highlighted environmental, social, and economic risks posed by illegal mining, including deforestation, water pollution, and loss of revenue.
He observed that the mining sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) has decreased from 9 percent to 1 percent.
Noted Phiri: “People are not patriotic enough, and deliberately fail to report suspicious mining developments.
“Everyone should make an effort to question the legality operations in their areas and, if not satisfied, should report to the nearest authority.”
In her remarks, ActionAid Malawi executive director Yandula Chipeta said the meeting aimed at unlocking Malawi’s potential by promoting sustainable mining.
She appealed to government and its stakeholders to consider using sustainable clean and green technologies as well as responsible mining practices to take care of the environment.
Meanwhile, senior group Saiti Mwasungu under Traditional Authority Makanjira has blamed government for lack of transparency and accountability, which he said has perpetrated illegal mining, which has led to environmental and economic losses.
The meeting provided a platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders in the mining sector.
The meeting was supported by, among others, Malawi Economic Justice Network, Oxfam Malawi, ActionAid Malawi, Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace, and the Ministry of Mining.
