Businessman Relocates to Safe Land After Floods Destroy Market
Paul Thikiti, a businessman in Nsanje, relocates to safe land along the Khulubvi Highway after floods destroy the old market.
NSANJE, MALAWI — After enduring years of floods in the old market, businessman Paul Thikiti has finally relocated to safe land along the Khulubvi Highway M1 road in Nsanje, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
Thikiti, along with other business operators, had been plying their trade in the old market, which was prone to flooding.
However, the recent tropical cyclone Freddy caused the worst floods in history, forcing Thikiti to move to protect his properties.
" Luckily enough, I have secured a place along the M1 road where I have built this building," said Thikiti.
He is now urging others in the old market area to relocate for the safety of their properties in the future.
Thikiti's decision to use cement bricks for construction instead of the usual burned bricks has drawn attention.
Environmentalist Charles Mkoka supports this choice, citing the reduced damage to the environment and the preservation of trees.
Mkoka emphasised that the widespread cutting down of trees for burnt bricks has negative implications for the soil, water holding capacity, and the ecosystem's interdependence.
He called on the National Construction Council and the Department of Environment Affairs to promote the use of cement bricks for their environmental benefits and durability.
Businessman Paul Thikiti's relocation serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of floods and the importance of proactive measures to mitigate future risks.