Tensions between Malawians and Mozambicans over fishing rights on Lake Chiuta, which lies in Machinga District and borders Mozambique, continue to worry community leaders.
To date, two people have died and over 30 Malawian fishers have sustained injuries in the ongoing boundary dispute.
The situation came to light on Saturday during a peace and mediation training that Youth Impact organised in Traditional Authority Ngokwe in the district.
Speaking in an interview, Senior Chief Ngokwe said at least 17 fishers went missing for two weeks only to be found on Friday.
“Lake Chiuta is our lifeline as most families depend on it for their livelihood. What is happening requires immediate action from authorities,” he said.
Ngokwe Area Development Committee chairperson Juliet Sapanga commended Youth Impact for the training, saying it will help in resolving pressing issues in the area.
“This training is timely as it will not only equip us with skills to address conflict, but will also contribute to resolving recurring issues such as land disputes and family conflicts, which have long affected our community’s peace and cohesion,” he said.
Ngokwe youth representative Luckia Charles echoed Sapanga’s sentiment, saying the youth have a role to play to ensure a harmonious society.
“As a youth, I am fully committed to using this training to advocate for peaceful coexistence between people living along the Malawi and Mozambique borderline,” she said.
Meanwhile, Youth Impact monitoring and evaluation officer Mwiza Muwalo said they wanted to equip chiefs, community stakeholders and youths in the border district to become mediators and peace brokers.
Youth Impact is implementing a Peace Building and Conflict Prevention Project in the district.
The training was funded by the United Nations Secretary General’s Peace Building Fund through United Nations Population Fund.
