President Peter Mutharika has tasked newly appointed Mining Minister Thoko Tembo with securing mining agreements that deliver greater benefits for Malawians, while warning that those aiding illegal mineral exploitation will face tough action.

NEWS | Politics | Mining | Edwin Mauluka

President Peter Mutharika has challenged Malawi’s new Minister of Mining, Thoko Tembo, to negotiate mining agreements that deliver tangible benefits for the country, while warning that those involved in illegal mineral exploitation are “traitors” who will face the full force of the law.

Speaking during Tembo’s swearing-in ceremony at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Mutharika said Malawi must strengthen its capacity to negotiate fair mining contracts if the sector is to fulfil its economic potential.

“For our mining sector to reach its potential, we need to enhance mineral exploration. We need to invest more in skills development at all levels, including building capacity to negotiate properly,” he said.

The President said Malawi had historically entered into mining agreements that overwhelmingly favoured investors because of weak negotiating capacity.

“The agreements we had were one-sided and of no benefit to Malawi at all. I want you to make sure you bring in experts to assist in negotiating agreements that are for the benefit of Malawians,” Mutharika said.

While acknowledging that investors are entitled to make profits, he stressed that Malawi must also receive a fair share of the returns from its natural resources.

“That is the mandate I am giving you. Make sure you remain committed to it,” he said.

Mutharika also urged the new minister to prioritise value addition and skills development across the mining industry, describing industrialisation as a cornerstone of his administration’s economic agenda.

“The Minister of Mining occupies a critical role in creating jobs, driving economic growth and unlocking the vast potential of our natural resources. Our country is endowed with rare earth minerals, niobium, uranium, rutile, gold and graphite, among others,” he said.

The President said he wanted the mining ministry to become a key driver of Malawi’s future prosperity but warned against the continued illegal extraction and smuggling of minerals.

“In the past, we have had many minerals taken out of this country, some illegally. We have also seen cartels from outside the country, some organised and, unfortunately, assisted by our own people. I consider such individuals traitors — people willing to sell Malawi for a few pieces of silver,” he said.

“I urge all Malawians involved in such behaviour to stop. Otherwise, I will go after you.”

The Ministry of Mining was created earlier this year after the government split the former Ministry of Energy and Mining into two portfolios. Tembo now heads the Mining Ministry, while Jean Matanga was appointed Minister of Energy. Mutharika has defended the restructuring, arguing that the mining sector requires dedicated leadership and closer oversight.

Speaking after taking the oath of office, Tembo pledged to ensure that Malawi secures better returns from its mineral wealth.

“We have had a lot of problems in the past, especially with negotiating agreements with miners and mining companies. This is something I take seriously, and it is an area the ministry must improve,” Tembo said.

“It is important that Malawians get fair deals while ensuring the sector continues to grow.”

Before his appointment, Tembo served as Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development.

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