Southern Region Water Board (SRWB) has urged communities in group village heads (GVHs) Onga and Kambalame in Chiradzulu District to protect water infrastructure in their areas.
The call follows concerns over theft and vandalism of water equipment in the areas.
To engage the communities, the board and Chiradzulu District Council organised a meeting in GVH Onga on Monday.
In his remarks, SRWB security executive Ephrone Mphande expressed concern with the persistent theft and vandalism of vital installations, disclosing that the board has already lost K120 million in replacing two stolen transformers in the area.
“People often say this is a business, but we are offering a service here. Our aim is to ensure that Malawians access safe drinking water. That is why we are here, not to generate profit,” he said.
Mphande, therefore, urged local leaders and community members to play an active role in safeguarding the infrastructure.
Chiradzulu Police Station officer Lloyd Chalemera said investigations have shown that most suspects come from Blantyre.
“We have intensified security measures and are encouraging community members to work closely with community policing structures to protect the equipment and identify the thieves,” he said.
Group village head Kambalame said it would help if the contractor builds a guardroom to allow security guards to operate in shifts.
“The guards were not paid on time and some were afraid for their lives because they lacked proper protection and equipment,” he said.
Chiradzulu District Council water department officer McPherson Kuseli said the council noted the community’s recommendations and suggestions
