Dike Construction to Shield Karonga from Recurring Floods
With financial support from the Malawi Government through DoDMA, the construction of the dike is expected to be completed by December 2024.
KARONGA, Malawi- The Karonga District Council, in partnership with the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), has initiated the construction of a dike along the North Rukuru River to combat the district's recurring annual floods, writes Lusekero Mhango.
The decision to build the dike comes in response to the extensive devastation caused by flooding from the river during the recent rainy season. Over 900 households in six village groups under Traditional Authority Kyungu lost crops, livestock, and homes.
Acting Director of Public Works for Karonga District Council, Yamikani Bokosi, stated that they are currently developing designs for the dike following completed assessments at the site.
He emphasized that the lack of a dike on the right side of the river exposed surrounding communities to significant flood-related losses throughout the rainy season.
"This stands in stark contrast to the protection enjoyed by communities on the left side, where a dike has already been constructed. The construction of the dike on the left side will go a long way in mitigating future risks," Bokosi said.
Humphrey Magalasi, the Disaster Risk Management Officer for Karonga District Council, noted that while responding to floods may seem costly, it is far more economical compared to the expenses incurred during recovery efforts.
"Once the dike is completed, communities will be empowered to embark on development initiatives without the constant fear of flooding, leading to the enhancement of their economic status," he said.
With financial support from the Malawi Government through DoDMA, the construction of the dike is expected to be completed by December 2024, with engineers from the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) overseeing the project.