Fishermen return to ‘toxic’ lake Malawi

MANGOCHI: Malawian fishermen have started returning to Lake Malawi for fishing after a few days’ break due to the presence of greener water in the lake which ecological experts described as toxic.

Natural Resources Minister Nancy Tembo said the greening of the lake water was caused by the phytoplankton bloom of the cyanobacteria which can lead to health complications if consumed in large quantities, she said.

The fisheries department warned fishermen against fishing in the lake. The water has started returning to normal. Despite the warnings, a lot of fishermen are resuming fishing. “We’ve been following the issue of toxic substances found in our lake. We’re not sure if it is safe to start buying again,” said Alice Njima from Blantyre.