Malawi secures $10 million Indian grant for critical minerals exploration

Malawi has secured a $10 million grant from the Indian government to fund exploration surveys for critical minerals in Dowa and Kasungu districts, a move expected to strengthen the country’s mining sector.

The announcement was made during the 20th Conference of Indian Industry (CII) India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi, India, held from August 27 to 29. The event focused on advancing key priorities set by the B20 Action Council on African economic integration under the theme “Co-Creation of Shared Future.”

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Speaking after the announcement, Minister of Mining Dr. Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma said the grant represents a major step in Malawi-India cooperation and in building the country’s capacity to identify and develop critical mineral resources.

“This support will allow us to carry out detailed surveys covering 1,000 square kilometers, identifying critical minerals essential for national development and ensuring that Malawi maximizes the potential of its mining sector efficiently,” he said.

Ng’oma emphasized that the partnership aligns with Malawi’s long-term economic strategy, particularly President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s Agriculture, Tourism, and Mining (ATM) vision, aimed at fostering growth, attracting investment, and creating sustainable employment.

“Our collaboration with India is in line with President Chakwera’s ATM strategy, which focuses on Agriculture, Tourism, and Mining to drive sustainable economic growth and support Malawi’s overall national development agenda,” he said.

According to Ng’oma, Minerals Exploration and Consultancy Ltd has been tasked with conducting the surveys, with a deadline of September 18, 2025. Khanij Bidesh India Limited will obtain licenses to mine rare earth and lithium.

“This initiative paves the way for establishing a multinational processing plant, positioning Malawi as a key player in the regional mining industry and attracting further investment opportunities to support economic transformation,” he added.

Indian Minister of Mining Shri G. Kishan Reddy said the Indian government has allocated $4 billion for the initiative, highlighting its long-term commitment to developing Malawi’s mining sector.

“India remains dedicated to fostering economic development in Malawi through this long-term investment, ensuring that the mining sector contributes meaningfully to job creation, industrialization, and national economic transformation,” Reddy said.

The Conclave aims to advance the B20 Action Council’s priorities on African economic integration, including trade and investment, education and skills development, infrastructure, industrialization, MSME collaboration, sustainability, and financial systems.