Fuel Crisis Grips Likoma Island as Prices Triple, Fishing Industry Suffers
District Commissioner James Mwenda emphasizes the unique challenges facing the island community.
LIKOMA ISLAND, Malawi— In an unprecedented fuel crisis gripping this remote island, residents are now paying K10,000 per litre — more than triple the national rate — as fuel drums remain detained at the mainland Nkhata Bay port, writes Mercy Phiri.
The shortage has particularly devastated the island's fishing industry, the economic backbone of this Lake Malawi community of approximately 14,000 residents.
"We're watching our livelihoods slip away," says John Banda, a fisherman for 15 years.
"Yesterday, I couldn't even take my boat out. The cost of fuel would exceed any profit from my catch."
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has yet to explain why the fuel drums are being held at Nkhata Bay.
MERA spokesperson Fitina Khonje told reporters Thursday they need "additional time to investigate the situation."
Unlike mainland communities, Likoma Island lacks a single filling station, forcing residents to rely entirely on transported fuel drums from Nkhata Bay, about 80 kilometres away by water.
"Everything here depends on fuel — our fishing boats, our transport, our generators," says Sarah Nyirenda, owner of a local grocery store.
"When fuel prices rise like this, every aspect of life becomes more expensive."
Local authorities are urging the national government to prioritise fuel delivery to remote areas.
District Commissioner James Mwenda emphasizes the unique challenges facing the island community.
"This isn't just about transportation — it's about survival," Mwenda says.
"Without reliable fuel access, our entire economy risks collapse."