Australian Mining Company Builds Police Unit in Rural Malawi Region
Eastern Region Police Commissioner Barbra Mchenga Tsiga welcomed the facility, noting it will serve local churches, schools, health centres and small businesses.
BALAKA, Malawi — Lindian Resources Ltd., an Australian mining company, handed over a newly constructed police unit Friday to authorities in Balaka, addressing security concerns ahead of its planned rare earth mining operations, writes AfricaBrief Reporter.
The facility, built in the Chanthunya area, includes holding cells and accommodation for law enforcement officers and community police forum members.
"The community wanted to respond to random incidences of insecurity in the area, which at times got grisly with various serious crimes being reported," said Trevor Hiwa, Lindian Resources country manager.
The company plans to begin the next mining phase at the Kangankunde rare earth deposit in 2025, with promises of economic benefits through taxes, royalties and job creation.
"We are proud to contribute to the safety and well-being of the Chanthunya community," said Alwyn Vorster, CEO of Lindian Resources.
"This police unit represents our commitment to fostering mutual trust and cooperation, economic growth, and improved livelihoods."
Eastern Region Police Commissioner Barbra Mchenga Tsiga welcomed the facility, noting it will serve local churches, schools, health centres and small businesses.
Senior Chief Chanthunya praised the company's priorities: “This demonstrates that Lindian cares for the people at the grassroots."
The project aligns with Malawi's MW2063 development blueprint, which aims to transform the nation into a self-reliant economy by 2063.