Malawi Mining Minister Highlights Sustainable Mine Development During Visit to Kasiya Project
Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Thoko Tembo, has underscored the importance of responsible mine development that balances economic growth with environmental protection and delivers lasting benefits for the country.
Speaking during a visit to Sovereign Services’ laboratory and the Kasiya trial mining and rehabilitation site, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that mining projects leave a positive legacy long after operations have ended.
“One of the things that government worries about is legacy mines. When people are done with their mining, they move on and leave a lot of pits everywhere, and these are usually an environmental hazard. So, to see that Sovereign Services has a plan for what they are going to do afterwards is something that is comforting to government,” Tembo said.
Focus on Sustainable Mining
Sovereign Services, the Malawian subsidiary of Australia- and London-listed Sovereign Metals, is developing the Kasiya Rutile-Graphite Project, one of the country’s largest emerging mining investments.
During the visit, company officials briefed the Minister on progress made at the project, including ongoing technical studies and environmental rehabilitation efforts designed to support sustainable mine development.
Company Reaffirms Commitment to Responsible Development
Sovereign Services Country Manager Maxwell Kazako welcomed the Minister and his delegation, expressing appreciation for the government’s continued engagement with the project.
“We appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate the work that has been undertaken since 2019 and to showcase the breadth of studies completed through the definitive feasibility study.
Our objective is to develop the project responsibly, working closely with government, local communities and other stakeholders to deliver lasting benefits for Malawi,” Kazako said.
Supporting Long-Term Growth
The visit concluded with discussions on the project’s development, environmental management strategy, and its potential contribution to Malawi’s economy through responsible investment, job creation, and community development.
Both government and company representatives highlighted the importance of collaboration to ensure the Kasiya project is developed in a manner that protects the environment, supports local communities, and generates sustainable economic value for Malawi over the long term.
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