By Victor Palitu
Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA) has suspended operations at the Finnish Mining Association site in Chikwawa for operating beyond its licensed capacity and illegally using heavy machinery without regulatory approval.
During an inspection visit on Monday, MMRA Director General Samuel Sakhuta said the mine, which began as a small-scale operation, had expanded unlawfully after entering into a partnership with a Chinese investor without notifying the authority.
He emphasized that small-scale mining is limited to simple tools and that using unapproved equipment and unregistered agreements violates the Mining Act and poses legal and environmental risks.
Sakhuta directed the mine to halt operations immediately and apply for medium-scale status, while also ensuring its partnership agreement is properly registered.He linked the directive to the government’s new Executive Order on Mining issued on the same day, which bans export of raw minerals and promotes value addition to boost Malawi’s economy.
He said the government wants all minerals processed locally to increase export value, create jobs, and strengthen industrial growth, stressing that Malawi must benefit fully from its natural resources.
Senior Chief Ngabu, Chairperson of the Finnish Mining Association, welcomed the government’s action, admitting some operations were non-compliant and pledged to upgrade the mine’s status by adhering to all legal requirements.
The MMRA assured the community that it will continue monitoring the site to ensure all corrective steps are taken before operations resume.
