Malawi’s rivers and lakes are more than just scenic landmarks, they are the arteries of our national development. From the Shire River that powers hydropower stations to Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site supporting fisheries, tourism, and biodiversity, surface water is central to daily life.
However, climate change, pollution, sedimentation, and increasing demand pose growing challenges to these precious ecosystems. Recognizing this, the National Water Resources Authority (NWRA) continues to implement robust programmes to monitor and protect surface water resources.
At the heart of these efforts is the Surface Water Monitoring Network, which includes stream gauges, automatic water-level recorders, and flow-measurement stations installed across major river basins. This network provides real-time data that supports hydropower operations, early flood warnings, water allocations, and environmental conservation.
NWRA is also strengthening catchment protection, working with partners to reduce erosion that leads to river siltation. In many areas, reduced vegetation cover has accelerated sediment loads, affecting water quality and flow regimes. By promoting reforestation, promoting riverbank buffer zones, and enforcing water-resource regulations, NWRA is working to restore river health.
One of the Authority’s flagship efforts is modernizing water data systems through digital platforms like the Water Resources Management Information System (WRMIS). This ensures that hydrological data is easily accessible for planning, research, and decision-making.
Surface water is a shared resource and protecting it requires collective responsibility. NWRA remains committed to safeguarding Malawi’s rivers and lakes for a sustainable and climate-resilient future.