Fellow Malawians,
Our nation is blessed with abundant natural resources—gifts from God and nature that have the potential to transform our country and uplift our people from poverty to prosperity. Minerals such as niobium, rare earth metals, and uranium are not just commodities; they are our heritage and a lifeline for economic development. However, the way we handle these resources will determine whether they bring wealth and progress or become yet another missed opportunity.
The Current Reality
It is concerning that the ownership of our precious minerals is overwhelmingly in the hands of foreign entities. For instance, the niobium deposits in Mzimba are controlled by Kula Gold (75%) and African Rare Metals Pty Limited (25%), with no significant stake held by the government or the people of Malawi. This pattern is not new—history reminds us of Kayelekera Uranium Mine, where minimal economic benefits were realized, leaving us with environmental degradation and unfulfilled promises.
The Cost of Neglect
Niobium, selling at approximately $30,000 per tonne (equivalent to over 50 million Malawian kwacha), represents immense value. Yet, without substantial local ownership and control, these earnings will largely benefit foreign investors while we remain spectators in the exploitation of our wealth. This failure to prioritize national interest is a grave disservice to current and future generations.
A Call to Action
Demand Government Accountability:
Malawians must hold the government accountable for ensuring that mining agreements prioritize national interest. At least 40% of ownership in all mining ventures should belong to the state or local entities.
Strengthen Legal Frameworks:
Advocate for robust mining policies that mandate local participation, fair revenue-sharing agreements, and environmental protections.
Educate and Empower Communities:
Local communities near mining sites must be informed about the value of the resources in their lands. Education campaigns should empower them to demand their share of benefits and ensure proper corporate social responsibility (CSR) from mining companies.
Develop Local Capacity:
Malawi must invest in building local expertise in mining, mineral processing, and resource management. This will reduce reliance on foreign companies and ensure more of the value chain remains within the country.
Pause and Strategize:
As a nation, we should consider halting the sale of our minerals until we have the capacity to manage and benefit from them. Short-term gains must not overshadow long-term sustainability.
Unity Is Key
The task of protecting our natural wealth is not just for the government; it is for every Malawian. Together, we must advocate, educate, and work towards systems that put our nation first. These resources are not just for us but for the generations that will come after us.
Let us learn from our mistakes and stand together to ensure that our natural resources are a blessing, not a curse. The time to act is now.
For a prosperous and self-reliant Malawi,
Willard Mhone
Senior Citizen of Malawi
