DC calls for action on illegal mining

Salima acting district commissioner (DC) Yonasi Chise has asked stakeholders to come up with a plan to stop illegal mining at Senga Bay in the district.

The call follows revelations of illegal sand mining along Lake Malawi at Senga Bay in the district.

Speaking during a meeting with property owners and council stakeholders on Tuesday, Chise said the illegal mining can jeopardise tourism along Lake Malawi.

He said: “Lake Malawi puts the country on the map globally. It is a tourist attraction which generates revenue. It is, therefore, sad to see illegal sand mining destroying the natural beaches.

“It is high time we came out of our comfort zone to do something as a district.”

Chise also said the illegal mining is destroying the ecosystems along the lake.

Presenting the district’s plan against illegal sand mining, Salima district environmental officer Samuel Chimowa said the malpractice was not new in the district.

He said: “People have always claimed that lodge owners do not own the lake and the beach; hence, mining sand is their source of income.

“Lodge owners have also constructed their facilities with the same sand. So, people are not convinced that the practice is bad.”

Chimowa said the council has taken various measures to stop illegal mining.

“The measures include meetings with chiefs and engaging Malawi Defence Force,” he said.

However, Chimowa said the council needs about K2.9 million to implement the outlined activities.

Group village head Mataka, who represented Traditional Authority Maganga, commended the council for taking measures against illegal mining in the district.