Malawi Village's Economic Growth Stalled by Water Crisis
Women and children walk several kilometres daily to fetch water, reducing time for income-generating activities.
NTCHISI, Malawi— Residents of Chikho village in Malawi's Ntchisi District face severe economic hardship as water scarcity prevents farming and gardening activities, their primary sources of income, writes Meclina Chirwa.
The village of 500 people relies on a single stream that frequently runs dry, forcing residents to abandon agriculture, their primary source of income.
"Nobody does small farming or gardening because there is no water," said Zakaria John, chairperson of the local water association.
"We rely on a stream, which sometimes dries up, leaving us with no alternative."
Women and children walk several kilometres daily to fetch water, reducing time for income-generating activities.
The water shortage has particularly affected young residents seeking agricultural work.
"Farming is the only income-generating activity in our area, but we can't do it without water," said Arnod Bwerekani, a youth from the village.
"We could be growing crops and earning a living if only we had access to water."
WaterAid Malawi plans to install water infrastructure in the district.
The organization's program officer, Laston Zungu, said the project will provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities.
"We understand the critical role water plays in economic development," Zungu said.
The organisation expects the new water source to enable farming activities and improve food security.
Residents currently purchase food from external sources at higher prices due to their inability to grow crops.
The situation has created a cycle of economic strain in the Traditional Authority Kasakula region.
The water project will also aim to reduce waterborne diseases, which affect workforce productivity.
WaterAid Malawi has not announced a completion date for the infrastructure.