Mining Solutions Africa says it is pursuing strategic measures aimed at fostering growth and collaboration within Malawi’s mining sector. Director Fredric Josiya says in an interview the Group, which operates as either contractors or sub-contractors specializing in mining engineering, will in 2024 expand its portfolio in areas such as mine designing and blasting with an ambitious vision to start own mining operations. “We are mining engineers, and our current projects involve diverse aspects of the mining process, from design to execution. Our next step is to have our own tenements, allowing us to engage in actual mining operations,” he says. As part of its growth strategy, Mining Solutions Africa has established a branch in Mozambique, expressing keen interest in expanding their operations beyond Malawi’s borders. Josiya urged the Malawi government to invest in mining sector through allocation of adequate funds in the budget for exploration projects, specifically targeting gold and lithium. He said the government would profit from the investment by selling exploration results to potential investors. Reflecting on the current state of the industry, Josiya acknowledged the challenges faced in 2023. He said; “It has not been a good year for us, as construction activities have been passive. However, we have observed a quiet resumption of construction works by the government in the last quarter, which is a positive sign, considering they are the main buyers of our focal jobs.” Mining Solutions Africa is currently engaged in preliminary prospecting in various areas, with a particular interest in gold and gemstones. Josiya outlined the company’s approach, stating, “After the preliminary results are out, we intend to engage government entities to process various licenses for robust explorations.” Discussing mining financing and economics in Malawi, Josiya expressed concern about the lack of expertise in key offices. He said; “As a country, we are not doing very well in mining finances and economics. We have just received two cohorts of professional mining engineers in our tertiary education institutions, and we lack experts in key offices, including lending institutions.” Josiya highlighted the significance of having professionals with robust knowledge in mining issues in key positions, both in government and lending institutions. He said: “These professionals are crucial for scrutinizing possible mining projects and facilitating their financing, similar to the situation in our neighboring countries.” “For Mining to develop in Malawi, there is a need for the government to invest more in exploration works, with the help of well-versed professionals who can take charge of vital areas including budget allocations.”