The Ministry of Mining has called on media practitioners to play a central role in shaping public understanding of Malawi’s mining sector, saying responsible and factual reporting is key to unlocking the industry’s potential for national development.
Speaking during a media training workshop in Salima, Minister of Mining Thoko Tembo said mining can transform the country if done responsibly.
He noted that benefits should translate into improved livelihoods, employment opportunities, increased government revenue, investment, and sustainable economic growth.
Tembo stressed that information and effective communication are critical for the sector’s transformation. He said without accurate reporting, the public cannot fully appreciate what is happening in mining or hold duty bearers accountable.
“The mining sector is technical and often complex. Issues such as mineral licences, exploration, operations, environmental protection, processing, exports, taxation, royalties, local content and artisanal mining can easily be misunderstood if not properly explained,” Tembo said.
The Minister added that the sector needs a well-informed media capable of translating these technical issues into language that communities can easily understand.
According to him, mining is increasingly becoming a key pillar of Malawi’s economic transformation.
Director of the Malawi Mining Regulatory Authority, Lloyd Muhara, highlighted some of the challenges facing the sector. He said misinformation on licensing procedures and mining activities continues to undermine public trust and investor confidence.
Muhara urged journalists to verify information and report accurately to avoid spreading confusion about how the sector operates. He said factual reporting will help build credibility for both Government and investors.
The workshop is expected to enhance the capacity of media practitioners to report accurately and contribute to transparency and accountability in Malawi’s mining sector. Organizers said stories should not only focus on disputes, but also highlight employment creation, local businesses benefiting from mining, and skills development, so that Malawians see the full picture of mining’s contribution to the economy.
