UTM Party presidential running mate Matthews Mtumbuka has pledged a sweeping transformation of Malawi’s mining sector, including the revival of Mchenga and Kaziwiziwi coal mines, under a proposed MK500 billion annual investment plan if the party secures victory in the September 16 general elections.
Speaking during a whistle-stop rally in Livingstonia earlier this week, Mtumbuka described the country’s underutilised coal sector as a low-hanging fruit that could drastically reduce forex shortages, create jobs, and drive rural development, particularly in Rumphi and other mineral-rich districts.
“Under President Kabambe’s leadership, we will turn Rumphi and many other districts into an ocean of development. Mchenga, Kaziwiziwi, and Rukuru will benefit from our robust MK500 billion annual investment in the mining sector,” Mtumbuka told an enthusiastic crowd.
He said UTM’s plan includes doubling the country’s daily coal output from the current 5,000 metric tonnes to meet and exceed the national demand of 10,000 metric tonnes, reducing reliance on imports from countries like Zimbabwe and positioning Malawi as a coal exporter.
The UTM running mate added that it is ironic and unacceptable that while Malawi complains about forex shortages, it continues to import half of its coal needs, yet UTM can unlock this potential by producing excess coal for export to generate the much-needed foreign currency.
Mtumbuka further pledged that a UTM-led government would provide soft loans to mining companies to help them acquire modern machinery, invest in mineral exploration, and ensure sustainable operations.
He added that the party would implement a shared revenue framework to ensure that communities in mining districts directly benefit through improved infrastructure and social services.
Mtumbuka also emphasised that the mining strategy would prioritise youth employment, creating thousands of pensionable jobs in both artisanal and large-scale mining ventures.
