BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-A heated debate has erupted in Malawi’s mining sector after Vice President Michael Usi suggested that the military should provide security in the country’s mines to curb alleged illegal extraction of precious stones by foreign nationals.
Usi made the remarks during campaign rallies in Mulanje District, ahead of the September 16 elections.
According to Usi, Malawians have not benefited from the minerals because foreign companies extract them solely for testing purposes.
He proposed that the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) establish camps in all mining areas to protect the minerals.
However, mining expert Paul Mvula has strongly disagreed with Usi’s suggestion, calling for effective civilian management of the mining sector instead.
“State agencies mandated to manage the extractive industry should ensure that minerals are not being smuggled,” Mvula said in an interview with MIJ Online.
Mvula’s sentiments echo concerns raised by other experts who believe that involving the military in mining operations could lead to more problems than solutions. Instead, they advocate for strengthening civilian institutions to effectively manage and regulate the sector.
Malawi’s mining sector currently accounts for only about 1% of the country’s GDP, despite having significant mineral deposits, including uranium, phosphates, bauxite, and precious stones.
The government has set ambitious targets to increase the sector’s contribution to GDP to 10% by 2063.
The mining sector in Malawi faces several challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of transparency, and inefficient management of mineral resources.
Some experts have called for urgent action to address these issues and ensure that the sector contributes meaningfully to the country’s economy.
As the debate over military presence in mines continues, one thing is clear: Malawi’s mining sector holds significant potential for economic growth, but it requires effective management and regulation to ensure that its benefits are shared equitably among all stakeholders.