Balancing Hope and Reality: Kasiya Project Aims to Transform Malawi’s Mining Sector
Malawi’s mining future is taking shape through the ambitious Kasiya rutile and graphite project, spearheaded by Sovereign Services. Positioned just outside Lilongwe, the project is poised to tap into the world’s largest known natural rutile deposit, containing an estimated 17.9 million tonnes.
This titanium-rich resource is critical to industries ranging from aerospace to defence and places Malawi on the global mining map.
While the promise is immense, Sovereign’s CEO Frank Eagar cautions that turning this mega project into a fully operational mine will take about six years. “This is not just about mining. It’s about transforming lives and economies in a responsible and inclusive way,” he said.
The project, if executed successfully, could significantly boost Malawi’s Vision 2063 development goals, creating over 1,100 permanent jobs, paying substantial royalties and taxes, and generating long-term economic benefits beyond its 25-year mine life.
But that promise comes with complex prerequisites – stable policies, infrastructure development, skilled workforce, and rigorous environmental and social governance.
Already, the company is running livelihood improvement initiatives in surrounding communities. Through conservation farming practices, some farmers have increased yields by over 300 percent. Sovereign plans to scale this up to enhance food security and climate resilience.
A comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment is underway, involving over 10,000 stakeholders so far. Sovereign has committed to transparent, inclusive community engagement every step of the way.
During a recent parliamentary hearing, Paul Nkhoma, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Industry, Trade and Tourism, reiterated government’s backing of the project, emphasizing its importance for Malawi’s future.
With nearly 15,000 people engaged per quarter, Sovereign is building the foundations for a mining operation rooted in shared growth, sustainability, and national transformation.
