Facing Rising Water Levels Head On

 This year, Malawians along some lakeshore districts have been experiencing rising water levels.

Indeed, hydrological data released by the National Water Resources Authority show that the water level of Lake Malawi reached 476.01 metres above sea level on March 17 this year. This is 0.46 metres higher than during the corresponding period last year.

The data project that the level could rise further to 476.4 metres by May 2026.

As a result of rising water levels, some structures have been submerged. In fact, structures continue to be submerged.

In the latest case, community members who stay in low-lying areas on Chizumulu Island have been impacted by rising water levels. Three houses, comprising 15 people in the south western cape of Chizumulu Island, have, in fact, been cut off from the main island.

This is a result of rising water currents triggered by heavy rains that Malawi and Tanzania are receiving.

So serious is the situation that, according to the District Commissioner’s office, the lake level has risen higher than what was observed two years ago.

However, we have not heard any report about those who are at risk of having their structures submerged moving to safer places. This could mean some people think it is business as usual.

For this reason, we would like to urge those who are likely to be affected to put their safety first.

At the same time, we would like to urge people to be observing lake-and-land boundaries so that, in cases where water levels rise, their structures should be safe.

For this to happen, there is a need to stick to district development plans and other development blueprints.

That way, the country will avert preventable disasters.

As they say, prevention is better than cure.