Malawi Government says it is optimistic of improving the mining sector in the next five years through deliberate initiatives aimed at creating a conducive environment for investment in the sector.

Minister of Mining Monica Chang’anamuno made the remarks in Lilongwe yesterday during the launch of a five-year strategic plan (2022-2027) and the National Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Policy (NPEPP).

She said government plans to promote the growth and sustainable development of the mineral sector to stimulate exports and contribute to import substitution.

Said Chang’anamuno: “Petroleum exploration and production in the country is regulated by the Petroleum [Exploration and Production] Act of 1983, Exploration and Production Regulations of 2009, and other legal, regulatory and policy frameworks.

“However, in the absence of the policy, the country’s aspirations in the upstream petroleum subsector are difficult to achieve.”

Chang’anamuno (L) shows off the strategic plan document as Mkandawire looks on

She, therefore, said the policy is expected to improve the governance framework for the upstream subsector, enforce international cooperation, protect the environment and maximise the benefits that will accrue to the country.

The policy also provides policy direction and guidance in the implementation of the interventions in the upstream petroleum subsector, the minister added.

On his part, the ministry’s Principal Secretary Joseph Mkandawire observed that currently, mining only contributes one percent to the country and that it is government’s wish to push it to 20 percent.

He also dismissed assertions that the ministry was hiding results of a comprehensive nationwide high resolution airborne geophysical survey that covered magnetic, radiometric and gravity conducted in 2013 and 2014, saying such information is accessible.

Globe Africa chairperson Neville Huxham has said the company plans to invest $250 million to mine Niobium starting next year.

Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, he indicated that the company will be signing a mining development agreement with government shortly and will make an initial investment of $50 million.

Said Huxham: “There is a great potential for the mining industry in the country. We expect to have 500 permanent staff and other casual workers.”

The strategic plan provides a new operational framework with a clear mission, vision and strategic objectives along with clear performance indicators. It aims to provide strategic direction for the development of the mining sector from 2022 to 2027.

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