Mining
Minister commends Portland Cement’s K200 billion Balaka plant investment
August 07, 2026 / Admin
The Minister of Mining, Honourable Thoko Tembo, has commended Portland Cement Malawi Limited for its K200 billion investment in the manufacturing and mining sectors following a visit to the company’s Balaka Plant.
Honourable Tembo, accompanied by government officials including representatives from the Balaka District Council, toured the plant and mining operations to appreciate the company’s contribution to industrial development, responsible mining, and economic growth.
The Minister applauded Portland Cement for undertaking the large-scale investment, describing the Balaka Plant as a significant milestone that is supporting Malawi’s industrialisation agenda through increased local cement production, job creation, and economic opportunities. He further recognised the company’s potential contribution to foreign exchange generation through cement exports, which can support the country’s economy and strengthen Malawi’s position in regional markets.
Honourable Tembo noted that investments of this magnitude demonstrate the critical role of the private sector in driving economic transformation, promoting local value addition, and creating opportunities for surrounding communities. He further commended Portland Cement for its commitment to responsible mining and sustainable business practices.
The Minister also assured Portland Cement of the Ministry’s support, stating that the Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investments that contribute to national development. He acknowledged that the company’s current production capacity is sufficient to cater for Malawi’s cement demand and commended Portland Cement for helping strengthen the country’s self-sufficiency in cement production. He added that the Ministry of Mining will continue working closely with the company and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable mining, value addition, and industrial growth.
Speaking during the visit, Portland Cement Chief Executive Officer Liu Jianguo expressed appreciation to Honourable Tembo and the accompanying delegation for visiting the Balaka Plant. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to producing high-quality cement products that meet required standards while ensuring full compliance with all regulatory requirements governing its operations.
Liu further highlighted Portland Cement’s commitment to environmental protection, responsible mining practices, and workplace safety. He noted that the company remains dedicated to supporting surrounding communities through various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at contributing to local socio-economic development and improving livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Balaka District Council Vice Chairperson Councillor Tiyanjane Chisowile described the investment as a major boost to the district’s socio-economic development. He applauded Portland Cement for creating employment opportunities for local people and for its continued support towards community development.
Councillor Chisowile also commended the company for its upcoming construction project at Ngonga Primary School, where Portland Cement is expected to construct classroom blocks to help improve the learning environment for learners in the surrounding community.
The visit highlighted the importance of government-industry partnerships in promoting sustainable mining, strengthening Malawi’s manufacturing sector, and supporting the country’s long-term economic development.
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Rehabilitation:
The establishment of a stable and self-sustaining ecosystem, but not necessarily the one that existed before mining began. In many cases, complete restoration may be impossible, but successful remediation, reclamation, and rehabilitation can result in the timely establishment of a functional ecosystem.
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Remediation:
The cleanup of the contaminated area to safe levels by removing or isolating contaminants. At mine sites, remediation often consists of isolating contaminated material in pre-existing tailings storage facilities, capping tailings and waste rock stockpiles with clean topsoil, and collecting and treating any contaminated mine water if necessary.
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