By Sellah Chunda

Lilongwe, May 29, Mana: Head of Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU), who is also Deputy Secretary to the Office of President and Cabinet, Janet Banda has revealed that some investors in the mining sector are committed to carry out projects that will enhance the growth of the mining industry in the country.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of a two -day Pre-lab meeting at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) on Wednesday in Lilongwe, Banda said the intensive meetings which were held, have revealed that collaborative efforts are needed to unlock the benefits hidden in the mining industry.

She said political will necessities the transformation, as such the government together with stakeholders are committed to solve challenges surrounding the mining sector.

"There is clear political will to propel the mining sector to the level that will bear economic fruits for our nation. As government we are glad to learn that there are some investors ready to take on some projects. This is a good development," Banda said.

She said other investors are committed to pay electricity bills to Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) in foreign currency once Malawi-Mozambique inter-connector is finalized.

"It is intriguing, to note that some mining investors are willing to pay ESCOM in foreign currency where Malawi-Mozambique inter-connector will have been signed. This will relieve pressure on electricity foreign currency payments," Banda added.

In his remarks, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Mining, Joseph Mkandawire said the operationalization of Mining Regulatory Authority will help the mining sector to grow.

He said the government has allocated funding to help the establishment of the regulatory body.

"In terms of mines and minerals Act, we had it in 2019 but it was replaced by an Act of 2023. This was done to create the regulatory body.

"We took so long to gazette the Act because we had funding issues. But we are pleased to report to you that government has allocated funds to help operationalize the Act," He said.