Lake Chilwa, Endorheic lake in Zomba District, Malawi
Lake Chilwa is an endorheic lake in Zomba District, characterized by extensive wetlands and the presence of Chisi Island near its center. The landscape consists of open water, shallow banks, and vegetation zones that shift with the seasons.
David Livingstone documented during his 1859 expedition that the lake extended further south than it does today, reaching toward Mount Mulanje. The water body's extent has shifted over time due to natural changes.
The lake is the lifeblood of fishing communities scattered around its shores, where people have maintained their traditional ways for generations. Daily life in the villages centers on the water, with families depending on it for food and income.
Access to the lake is best through small fishing villages on the shore, though roads can be rough and challenging to navigate. Plan your visit during the dry season when pathways are more passable and conditions are more stable.
The water completely vanished in 1968 during an extreme drought, a striking event that revealed the area's vulnerability to dry periods. This experience shows how dependent local communities are on water sources that cannot always be taken for granted.
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