Karonga Council Shutters 27 Mills for Violating Waste Management Rules
The council's move highlights growing efforts to enforce environmental regulations in Malawi's industrial sectors.
KARONGA, Malawi — The Karonga District Council has closed 27 rice and groundnut mills and cut off their electricity for failing to comply with waste management directives, writes Lusekero Mhango.
Ulemu Nyondo, the council's physical planning officer, said Thursday the closures followed a June 17 meeting about proper waste management.
Despite a 14-day notice, significant waste remained on the premises.
"We are compelled to enforce the agreed-upon measures to maintain cleanliness and public health standards within Karonga," Nyondo said.
The closures will continue until owners clear the waste and follow council regulations, including disposing of waste at designated sites and placing tents to control residuals affecting passersby.
Harry Mwanyembe, secretary for the Rice Millers Association of Karonga, acknowledged the failure to comply with regulations.
"We admit our failures to comply with the laws set by the Council and will follow their regulations to ensure we can resume operations," Mwanyembe said.
Local resident Litness Nyasulu praised the council's action, noting that rice and groundnut husks posed health concerns for the community.
The council's move highlights growing efforts to enforce environmental regulations in Malawi's industrial sectors.