Black-outs worry mining companies

Mine Owners in Blantyre have cried foul over frequent power interruption which they say is   compromising production and in turn resulting in losses.

The mine owners raised the matter when Mines Minister John Bande visited Quarry Terrastone limited and Zalewa Agricultural Lime Company ZALCO on Thursday.

ZALCO Managing Director Martins Saunders said the company is unable to produce enough lime as they cannot use big machines in lime production due to power failure.

“We are losing a lot of money because of power interruption. I hope government will put in place mechanisms to avert frequent power interruptions which is costing them a lot,” said Saunders.

On her part, Quarry Terrastone Limited manager Mrs. Isabel Oliveira asked local construction companies and individuals to promote the industry by buying their products.

However Bande said he was impressed that the country has potential miners that focus on areas deemed less important like quarry and lime production.

“I am appealing to  small scale miners in the country, it is high time  you  ventured into mining areas deemed less important if the country economy is to develop, am convinced that there is potential,” said Bande.