Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango has assured that government is committed to finding a long-term solution to the submerged jetty at Nkhata Bay District to ensure smooth operations throughout the seasons.
He said this on Sunday during an inspection to assess challenges passengers face when boarding and disembarking from the MV Ilala, which have worsened due to rising water levels in Lake Malawi that have left the jetty submerged.
“I received reports about the challenges people are facing at the jetty and thought it wise to come and see for myself. I have indeed observed that docking has shifted several metres away from the jetty, creating a huge obstacle for travellers,” said Mhango.
He said although the jetty was constructed in 2018 as a solution, increased rainfall over the past three years has exposed weaknesses in its design.
“The rains we have experienced have shown that we need a more resilient and well-informed design that takes into account environmental factors,” said Mhango.
The minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to complete the long-awaited jetty
project at Likoma Island.
“I want to assure them that in the coming months, they will have a fully functional jetty where the MV Ilala will dock,” said Mhango.
A passenger, John Manda expressed concern over increased costs caused by the situation.
He said passengers are forced to pay K1 000 or more, depending on the volume of goods, to use small boats to access the ship.
“This is affecting our small-scale businesses. We are asking government to act quickly and provide a lasting solution,” said Manda.
Another passenger, Mercy Phiri from Likoma thanked the minister for reassuring people of Likoma to complete the jetty.
“We also struggle to board Ilala in Likoma because there is no jetty,” she said.
