The government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mining, has reiterated its stand on the temporary ban on exporting raw mineral resources as a way to ensure local value addition.
Minister of Energy and Mining Jean Mathanga made the remarks on Thursday during a familiarization tour at Shayona Cement Company in Kasungu District.
Shayona is one of the companies engaged in limestone mining and cement production, with most of its products consumed locally.
Mathanga said that the government is committed to addressing all bottlenecks affecting mining activities in the country to ensure that the sector meaningfully contributes to the economy of the country.
"It is the government's interest to ensure that all minerals are processed for both local consumption and export. Shayona is one of the companies that engage in limestone mining as well as cement production, which is recommended as it helps alleviate the scarcity of foreign exchange," she said.
Mathanga further said that government is aware that inadequate power supply is one of the challenges affecting the mining sector in the country and has since pledged to address the issue in order to attract more mining investors.
She said with support from the European Union (EU), the government is set to roll out the Eastern Backbone project, which consists of two distinct initiatives aimed at improving power transmission and grid reliability in the country.
"If we provide enough support to these investors, they will assist the government in its agenda. We must ensure that we work together with the investors and listen to their challenges so that they are not disrupted in their work," said Mathanga.
On his part, the Human Resources and Administration Manager for Shayona Cement Company Austin Mvula has called for assurance regarding the continued availability of a market for their products, arguing that the company is dismayed by the increase of illegally imported cement in the market.
"We need assurance from the government regarding the continued availability of the market. We should not have illegally imported cement. Those who wish to import must do so legally," said Mvula.
He also mentioned that, in addition to experiencing inadequate power supply, the government should consider upgrading the road network, including the 29-kilometer stretch from the M18 Road to the company's site.
"Power supply is indeed one of the major challenges as we only receive half of what we need. If power is augmented, that will be a key contribution from the government," he added.
However, Kasungu District Council Chairperson Councillor Nephytally Chikwanda has commended Shayona Cement Company for making a significant contribution to the development of the country.
He said the council is committed to supporting the company in its operations to ensure the smooth implementation of its initiatives.
"We are really impressed with the progress the company is making. As the council, we are committed to assisting the company in its operations," said Chikwanda.
Shayona Cement Company produces at least 40,000 bags of cement daily.
