The government of Malawi has warned that illegal mining and cross‑border smuggling of unprocessed minerals pose a serious national security and economic threat by draining state revenue, weakening regulation, damaging the environment and fueling organised crime.
According to a statement signed by Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Shadric Namalomba, after suspending mining licences and issuing the October 21, 2025 ban on raw‑mineral exports, authorities have activated a Joint Task Force on Illegal Mining and Smuggling (JTF‑IMS).
The multi‑agency unit comprising the Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Police Service, National Intelligence Service, Department of Mines, Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change, Ministry of Justice, Malawi Prison Service and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions has been mandated to use all lawful means to combat the practice nationwide.
“The task force has been mandated to employ all lawful and necessary measures to decisively combat illegal mining and mineral smuggling across the country,” reads part of the statement.
The government urged anyone involved in illegal mining, including in protected and environmentally sensitive areas to stop immediately, warning that non‑compliance will trigger firm enforcement action under Malawian law.
However, the statement has outlined government commitment to protect Malawi’s mineral wealth and ensure exploitation is lawful, sustainable and transparent for all citizens.
