Malawi approves Jospong feasibility study for waste management facilities

Malawi's Ministry of Natural Resources has given the green light for Ghana's Jospong Group of Companies to conduct a feasibility study on establishing integrated waste management facilities across the country. Principal Secretary Misheard Yagontha Munthali made the announcement during a press conference ahead of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye.

The decision comes after the Malawian delegation visited Jospong's operations in Ghana and signed a memorandum of understanding outlining areas of cooperation. The feasibility study is critical in determining suitable locations, investment requirements and the next steps towards setting up the facilities. The study will initially focus on four city councils - Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu - with potential expansion to 28 district councils.

Dr Munthali emphasized that waste management was once seen as a nuisance, but the visit to Jospong's facilities in Ghana changed their perspective, recognizing waste as a significant economic opportunity. The partnership aims to create cleaner cities, generate employment and support local businesses involved in waste management.

The government assured that Jospong will not displace local operators and small-scale businesses, but rather collaborate and coordinate with them in managing waste at designated sites.