MMRA to deploy Mining Officers to District Councils to curb illegal mining

The Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority has announced that it is considering introducing mining and geological officers in district and town councils across Malawi.

The proposed move is aimed at strengthening the regulation and oversight of mining activities at the local level.

MMRA Director General Mphatso Chikoti disclosed the plan during a sensitisation meeting held in Mangochi District.

The meeting brought together District Commissioners and Traditional Leaders from various parts of the country.

Chikoti said devolving some of the authority’s powers to district and town councils would enhance safe and sustainable mining practices.

He explained that placing mining and geological officers closer to mining sites would improve monitoring and enforcement of mining regulations.

Chikoti further noted that the initiative would help address the growing problem of illegal mining, which has led to environmental degradation and loss of government revenue.

Zomba District Commissioner Musandide Fredrick Misinjo welcomed the proposal, saying district authorities are ready to support the initiative.

Misinjo said councils will continue working closely with traditional leaders and councillors to raise awareness on the importance of complying with laws regulating the mining sector.

He emphasized that community engagement is critical in ensuring that mining activities benefit local populations while protecting the environment.

Meanwhile, Paramount Chief Kaduya of Phalombe District expressed satisfaction with the move, saying traditional leaders are encouraged by efforts to empower them.

The Lhomwe chief said local leaders are pleased to be given more authority to intervene in cases of illegal mining within their jurisdictions.

He observed that chiefs are often the first point of contact when illegal mining activities emerge in communities.

The sensitisation meeting also provided a platform for leaders to share experiences and challenges related to mining governance at the local level.

Participants at the meeting were drawn from the districts of Phalombe, Mangochi, Balaka, Machinga, and Zomba.