Malawi’s Mining Sector Receives Boost from World Bank

The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Malawi’s mining sector development, with a focus on enhancing the industry and fortifying the national economy.

This dedication was reiterated during a courtesy visit from World Bank Country Manager for Malawi, Firas Raad, to the Ministry of Mining, where he met with Minister of Mining, Hon. Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma.

The World Bank’s initiatives in Malawi include providing technical and financial support, implementing a mining cadastre system, capacity building, and skill development in geo-scientific data management.

A comprehensive mining diagnostic study will also be conducted to identify key challenges and opportunities for the sector’s growth.

Zikhale emphasized the importance of leveraging Malawi’s mineral resources to revitalize the nation’s economy, which has been largely dependent on agriculture noting that persistent weather challenges and declining soil fertility have severely affected the agricultural sector, making it essential to explore alternative pathways to prosperity.

“To further boost the mining sector, my Ministry has plans to hold a Mining Symposium aimed to gather input from citizens and stakeholders on how to enhance the country’s mining sector,” said Zikhale.

Making his contribution during this years Pre-Budget Consultation meeting in Mzuzu on Tuesday, the Executive Director of Phunzilani Development Organisation, Kinear Mlowoka called for unity among players in the Mining sector on crafting effective strategies to address challenges facing the sector, such as illegal mining and mineral smuggling.

“The mining sector is a key component of the Action and Technical Assistance (ATM) strategy, which can rapidly transform Malawi’s economy,” said Mlowoka.

With the World Bank’s support and the government’s initiatives, Malawi’s mining sector is poised for growth and development.