NWRA Warns Unlicensed Borehole Drillers to Get Permits or Face Jail
NWRA expects to license some 1,500 new boreholes countrywide this year. The agency has yet to determine how many unpermitted drillers are operating.
DOWA, Malawi — Malawi's National Water Resources Authority issued a stern warning Thursday to water drillers operating without licenses, saying unpermitted drilling endangers water supplies, writes Mphatso M'bang'ombe.
NWRA spokesperson Masozi Kasambara said drillers must have valid licenses to construct, alter or enlarge boreholes for water extraction.
He issued the reminder during a meeting with leaders in Dowa, a district in Malawi's Central Region.
“Any person wishing to drill, construct, enlarge or alter a borehole shall apply to the NWRA for one to be granted a license. They should file an application to the NWRA by use of a prescribed form,” Kasambara said.
The laws aim to protect Malawi's water resources through oversight of commercial and residential drilling operations. NWRA licenses ensure drillers meet standards that prevent depletion and contamination of groundwater.
Violators face steep fines of up to K10 million (nearly $10,000) and up to 10 years imprisonment, Kasambara warned.
The Water Resources Act established NWRA in 2013 to manage Malawi's lakes, rivers and aquifers.
The agency oversees permitting and regulates water rights nationwide.
Dowa District civil society chair Maxwell Kadutsa said awareness campaigns were needed so drillers know about licensing requirements.
"There is a need for massive awareness on the mandate and duty of NWRA in the district,” Kadutsa said at the meeting.
District Executive Committee members pledged to work with NWRA to identify unlicensed drillers in Dowa, hold awareness drives and take enforcement action when necessary.
NWRA board chairperson Boniface Msiska noted Malawi's rising water demands amid droughts and erratic rains attributed to climate change.
“This calls for proper management and protection of our water resources now more than ever before. We count on the cooperation of drillers, civic leaders and all Malawians in this important work,” Msiska told AfricaBrief.
With thousands accessing groundwater via private and community boreholes, Msiska said licensing provides oversight to ensure aquifers are not depleted.
NWRA expects to license some 1,500 new boreholes countrywide this year. The agency has yet to determine how many unpermitted drillers are operating.