Karonga residents including traditional and religious leaders and the clergy have given an ok to United Arab Emirates-based Hamra Oil Holdings Limited to explore for oil on Lake Malawi.

The development comes at a time when the country’s potential in minerals continues to inspire locals and the international community.

The company is exploring oil on Lake Malawi, specifically in Karonga, Nkhata Bay, Rumphi and Nkhotakota districts.

Currently, it is sensitising communities to the exercise to clear fears and myths surrounding the project.

The community have also welcomed the initiative as the outcome of the exploration exercise may result in creation of employment, business opportunities and general development of the district.

If the company’s exploration results would indicate that there is oil on our lake and Hamra is granted mining licence to drill, the development may be a relief to the community because most of the people will access employment and business opportunities with the company, which would result in development of the district, said Wavisanga Silungwe, during one of the locals’ consultation meetings.