Mining Firms Told to Comply With All Regulations
The Ministry of Mining calls on mining companies to adhere to regulations, emphasizing worker safety and community well-being.
Karonga, Malawi - Mining companies operating in Malawi have been urged to comply with all mining rules and regulations to ensure safety and protect workers' rights, writes Wezi Mwangonde.
Martin Kaluluma Phiri, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Mines responsible for regulation, made the call during the 2023 Alternative Mining Indaba organized by Karonga Diocese Justice and Peace desk in partnership with the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace.
Phiri said the ministry has noted through inspections that some mining firms fail to comply with regulations on minimum wages, health and safety.
"The mines are owned by people and the owners should know their interactions with people. If our call falls on deaf ears then the law will take its course," Phiri told participants.
Spencer Mwalweni, chair of the local mining committee in Karonga district, said mining workers face challenges related to non-compliance with regulations, especially on wages, health and safety.
He requested the government to review some mining rules so all mines can benefit communities regardless of category.
"We have expressed our concerns through this Indaba on how mining governance functions in our district," Mwalweni said.
Wezzie Banda Matsimbe, the coordinator of the Fighting Inequalities program funded by the Norwegian and Danish churches, said the indaba provided a forum for community members to express challenges and suggestions regarding mining governance.
Matsimbe commended plans for district mining officers, saying they will help provide timely responses to community questions.
The indaba was held under the theme "Communities in Karonga for Just and Inclusive Mineral Resource Governance."
Compliance with regulations is key to ensuring safety, rights and benefits for all from Malawi's mining industry.