Minister of Mining, Kenneth Zikhale Ng'oma, said the mining sector is a vital engine for the country's economic recovery and growth.

Ng'oma was speaking on Wednesday in Karonga when he visited Kayelekera Mine to appreciate progress at the mine which is set to resume production by September.

Ng'oma said;",I'm so shocked, because if you look at the investment that is here, they should have been making money which could have benefited our country alot. They say they will start production between July to September which is a very good sign that Malawi is taking mining very seriously. There are three other companies which are going to do the same and this a great stride towards boosting our economy."

The Minister further promised to support the operations of mining companies by getting rid of bottlenecks which have the potential to reduce earnings from the industry.

"The government will also ensure that all information relating to the mining industry is readily available and things are done in a transparent manner in collaboration with the media fraternity which helps disseminate information,"he explained.

Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga and Chitipa called on the operators of the Kayelekera Uranium Mine, Lotus Africa Limited, to ensure that Malawians benefit meaningfully from the natural resources being extracted in their own country.

He said;"Previous operators gave Malawians a raw deal during their time managing the mine."

As custodians of the land, we want to see real change this time, and our people deserve better jobs, infrastructure, and a clean environment. We cannot continue to be spectators while others benefit from our resources.”

Managing Director for Lotus Africa Limited's Corporate Department Gregg Bittar said the mine will deliver for the people of Malawi.

"The government is a very important economic partner with a significant interest in the project and its success as well as the interests the community have through the Community Development Agreement that will make sure that not only does Karonga and Chitipa benefit but the whole country as well from the restart of production which will be very soon,"Bittar said.

"The government is a very important economic partner with a significant interest in the project and its success as well as the interests the community have through the Community Development Agreement that will make sure that not only does Karonga and Chitipa benefit but the whole country as well from the restart of production which will be very soon,"Bittar said.

Lotus Africa Limited took over operations at Kayelekera Mine after Paladin went into care and maintenance in 2014 due to falling uranium prices.