By Wendi Mkandawire
The Malawi School of Government has emphasised the importance of strengthening comprehensive hydrogeological investigations before drilling boreholes to promote sustainable water supply systems across the country.
According to the Head of the Department of Leadership and Management at the Malawi School of Government, Lamech Malekano Chimphero, said scientific groundwater assessments are becoming increasingly important as some areas experience declining groundwater levels and changing environmental conditions.
Chimphero noted that integrating climate projections with traditional groundwater assessments could help ensure that boreholes remain reliable and productive over the next 10 to 20 years despite the impacts of climate change.
He further observed that women and girls in rural communities often bear a disproportionate burden when water sources become unreliable, as they may be required to travel longer distances to access water.
He added that improving access to safe water and sanitation remains critical in supporting public health efforts, including the prevention of cholera outbreaks that have affected Malawi in recent years.
According to Chimphero, strengthening evidence-based planning and sustainable groundwater management can help enhance the long-term effectiveness of investments in water infrastructure and contribute to national water security objectives.
