Limestone Quarry to Create Jobs, Says RVMC
Andrew Piriminta, chairperson of the Nsanje District Development Committee, welcomed the project as the first major company to operate in the district.
NSANJE, Malawi- The Rift Valley Mining Company (RVMC) says preparations are nearing completion for the opening of the first limestone quarry in Nsanje, which will create new job opportunities in the district, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
RVMC Managing Director Russel Thornicroft said Monday that the company has been exploring limestone deposits in the area of Traditional Authority Ngabu since 2011.
“Once operational, the limestone quarry is expected to have a 45-year mine life and will produce 50,400 tons of limestone annually," Thornicroft said.
He added that limestone will have a wide range of uses, including applications in agriculture, construction, environmental protection, steel manufacturing and water treatment.
Value-added limestone products like quick lime, agricultural lime and hydrated lime will also be produced on-site through processing, packaging and wholesale distribution.
According to Thornicroft, the project aligns with national goals of promoting industrialization and transforming the economy.
"The project is in line with the Malawi Agenda 2063, which outlines the mining sector as a key driver for growth," he said.
Andrew Piriminta, chairperson of the Nsanje District Development Committee, welcomed the project as the first major company to operate in the district.
He said the investment will curb unemployment by creating jobs, especially for local youth.
"It will go a long way in improving living standards for rural communities," Piriminta said.
Traditional Authority Ngabu also endorsed the project, saying RVMC has already shown corporate social responsibility by building roads and addressing local needs.
"There is demand for more classrooms, water and health facilities in the area," the traditional leader said.