By Durell Namasani
For residents living along the Changwina and Kasantha rivers, the water that once sustained their crops and livestock has turned into a silent threat. The culprit, according to a newly issued suspension order, is Coal and Minerals Company (CMG) Limited.
Following a joint inspection on April 5, authorities discovered that CMG had been discharging coal-associated waste directly into the two rivers—a blatant violation of Malawi’s environmental laws. The contamination has raised urgent alarms about public safety, as downstream communities rely on the same water for drinking, farming, and fishing.
“The inspection revealed that mining activities by CMG were posing a significant threat to the environment and public safety,” reads the suspension order signed by MMRA Director General Mphatso Chikoti. Uncontrolled runoff from mining pits and waste stockpiles has been flowing unchecked into natural water bodies, poisoning ecosystems and endangering human health.
The Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), together with MEPA and NWRA, ordered an immediate halt to operations on April 8. CMG now faces severe penalties: a K30 million fine, K1 million for each day of continued violation, and possible imprisonment of up to ten years. A progress report has been demanded by April 16.
For Karonga’s riverside communities, the suspension offers a glimmer of hope—but years of damage may already be done.
