MALAWI: Mutharika Splits Energy and Mining Ministry, Appoints Tembo to Mining Portfolio

By Smile Hamilton

President Peter Mutharika has restructured his Cabinet by splitting the Ministry of Energy and Mining into two separate ministries, a move that will see the sectors managed independently under dedicated leadership.

The changes, announced through a statement from the Office of the President and Cabinet, retain Jean Mathanga as Minister of Energy. Mathanga had been overseeing the combined Ministry of Energy and Mining before the latest restructuring.

In a related appointment, Thoko Tembo has been named Minister of Mining. Tembo joins the portfolio after serving as Deputy Minister of Agriculture.

According to a statement signed by Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi, the appointments take effect immediately.

“The appointments are with immediate effect,” reads part of the statement issued by the Chief Secretary, adding that President Mutharika made the changes in the exercise of his constitutional powers.

The separation of the ministry is expected to provide greater focus on the country’s energy and mining sectors, both of which are regarded as important to Malawi’s economic growth and development agenda. The mining sector in particular has been identified by government as one of the areas with potential to attract investment and generate revenue.

The latest Cabinet adjustments underscore the administration’s efforts to strengthen the management of key sectors as the government pursues policies aimed at improving service delivery, boosting economic activity and maximizing the contribution of natural resources to national development.