Nkhotakota community appeals for bridge
People living along Lokowa River in Nkhotakota have expressed concern over lack of a bridge on the river and have since appealed to duty-bearers to construct one.
During a visit to the village by this correspondent, people were seen attempting to cross the flooded river using makeshift boats made from banana stems.
A teacher at Chamtondo Primary School Samuel Zondeni said due to environmental degradation, the river continually bursts its bank during the rainy season.
He said: “Life becomes tough during the rainy season because all social services are on the other side of the river. Sometimes we cross this flooding river naked and dress up again when we reach the other side, a thing which devalues our dignity.”
Zondeni said two years ago, two people drowned as they tried to cross the river.
Mpama Ward councillor Gaziel Chimzere, who is also chairperson of Nkhotakota District Council, said constructing a bridge at the site requires expertise as the river changes its course every rainy season.
“The river changes its course every rainy season. As a result, many secondary streams have developed. But the council is discussing how best it can address the challenge,” he said.
About 6 000 people live along the river which lies between Naferanji and Kalungama communities.
Director of public works at the council Langston Mlozowa could not be reached for comment as his mobile phone went unanswered despite several attempts.
