Residents of Likoma have asked the government to hand over the nearly finished jetty to address ongoing challenges on Lake Malawi.
The plea was made during an interface meeting on Wednesday in Likoma, organized by the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE), which brought together Area Development Committee members from the Southern Region and various stakeholders.
Archdeacon Father Brighton Chitowe of the Anglican Church in Likoma said that although the jetty is not yet completed, its early handover could significantly enhance safety for passengers and goods transported across the lake.
“My mother nearly drowned, and though she was saved, it shows how important the jetty is. We ask the government to hear our plea,” said Chitowe.
Golden Chikhanda, the District Governor for the Democratic Progressive Party in Likoma, said residents have lost goods while boarding and disembarking ships due to the lack of a proper jetty.
Recently, a Parliamentary Committee visited Likoma Island to assess the jetty’s progress and discuss the steps needed to finalise its construction.
By Ireen Mseteka, MANA
