Lake Malawi is one of the largest fresh water lakes in the world, located in southeast Africa. Its natural beauty and abundant freshwater resources make it a popular tourist destination and a haven for fish, animals and plant life that make the lake a scientific marvel, studied for centuries by biologists and geologists. As one of the African Great Lakes, Lake Malawi, formerly named Lake Nyassa, is a body of freshwater bordered by four African countries including Mozambique to the east, Malawi to the south, Tanzania to the north, and Zambia to the west. Together, these countries contain all of Lake Malawi.
Most of Lake Malawi falls within Malawi’s borders, however, Mozambique established the country’s sole possession, an island-like feature called Likoma Island. Nestled on top of the lake, it is the 43rd largest island in Africa. Furthermore, with a shore length measuring 580 miles, Lake Malawi is over twice as long as its width. Making it one of the largest lakes by surface area on the continent.
Lake Malawi’s Temperature and Salinity
The average temperature of Lake Malawi during the summer is between 70 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of this large body of water warms somewhat evenly throughout and does not normally drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, even during the winter months; when nighttime temperatures can dip significantly. The lake’s salinity is quite low, with an average of 1 to 4 parts per thousand, similar to that of other African Great Lakes.
Its Depths, Fauna and Flora
The depth of Lake Malawi varies significantly across its entirety, reaching depths as low as 29 feet and as high as 704 feet. It also has a natural basin with only a few depressions. The lake’s shorelines contain sandy coves and large bays, granting it an increased surface area for meandering streams and wildlife.
Lake Malawi is home to a vast array of wildlife, all of which are unique to the lake. The majestic, brightly coloured Cichlid Fish are the lake’s most famous inhabitants. Over 1,000 species have been discovered, all making the lake their home. Its shores also host various species of birds, as well as several species of mammals, like elephant, baboons and hyenas, some nocturnal and some diurnal.
Lake Malawi’s Historical Significance
Lake Malawi’s significance reaches far beyond its ecological wealth. Its historical relevance is seen in archaeological findings with evidence linking pearly shell objects, stone tools, shell beads and pottery to human settlement along its shorelines. People have been living in the vicinity of Lake Malawi for hundreds of thousands of years, with traces of early human remains showing evidence of civilisation in the region dating back to the Stone Age.
For this reason, Lake Malawi is often known as the ‘Lake of Stars’ for its historical importance and prominence to ancient civilisations. Its scenic beauty and historical holdings have also been recognised by UNESCO – an organisation that has designated some areas around the lake as natural sites of particular global significance.
Its Economy and Culture
The astounding beauty of the lake and its natural resources have been the source of the Lake Malawi economy for centuries, drawing an array of visitors from all around the world. People are often drawn to the lake for its pristine beaches and exotic wildlife; however, the economic vitality of the lake’s ecotourism doesn’t stop there.
As one of the African Great Lakes, Lake Malawi also offers a variety of lake-based activities, such as boat rides and fishing. The lake is also host to a variety of cultures and festivals, where foreign and local foods can be enjoyed and different cultures can be experienced through song and dance.
Its Environmental Challenges
Lake Malawi is a haven for its animals and native populations, but unfortunately, the lake is also facing a variety of ecological challenges. Due to its limited water resources, there are serious concerns about the lake’s health. Some of the environmental issues facing the lake include pollution due to sewage, industrial runoff and fertiliser leakage. Overfishing is also a major problem and an increased population is putting great strain on the lake’s delicate eco-system.
Fortunately, there are initiatives in place to help protect the lake. Overfishing is being managed by local fishermen associations and government agencies, while pollution is being reduced through the implementation of improved sanitation systems.
Urbanisation and Deforestation
Urbanisation and deforestation around Lake Malawi are threatening its health. Developments such as building hotels and planting fishing farms are changing the shoreline and disturbing the ecology of the lake. Deforestation of the surrounding areas contribute to silt build up in the lake, which limits the natural flow of nutrients and impacts fish and animal habitats.
The further population growth of the surrounding areas is leading to an increased demand for resources, leading to further deforestation and urbanisation. As a result, the fragile ecosystems of the lake are being disturbed, creating an unsustainable level of resource use and making it difficult for conservation efforts to be effective.
Climate Change Impact On The Waters Of Lake Malawi
Climate change is also a major threat to the lake. Rising temperatures cause fluctuations in the lake’s temperature and water levels, alongside other alterations in the ecosystem. This in turn has a direct impact on the fish and other animals and plants that live in the lake, making them more vulnerable to new diseases and also limiting their food supply.
There is also a risk of increased extreme weather events and flooding, which can lead to loss of life and further degradation of the lake. To combat these issues, local authorities are developing plans to monitor the lake and minimise the impact of climate change on Lake Malawi.
Other Determinants Impacting The Lake
Other factors that have had a major impact on the lake include the introduction of non-native species, such as the Nile Perch, which compete and prey on native fish species, and the lack of a sustainable fishing industry. Furthermore, the construction of dams in the area has led to a decrease in water flow, reducing the amount of water to Lake Malawi. In addition, unsustainable agricultural practices and unsustainable water use are also impacting the lake’s health.
To combat these issues, local authorities and NGOs are developing policies and programmes to improve sustainable fishing, groundwater management and hunting regulation. Additionally, investment in renewable sources of energy would also help reduce the strain on the lake’s resources.
The Benefit Of Wildlife Conservation Areas On Lake Malawi
In order to protect the lake’s delicate eco-system, a number of wildlife conservation areas have been set up around the lake. These include Lake Malawi National Park, Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve and the Lengwe National Park. These areas offer protection for species and habitats of the lake, as well as providing educational, scientific and leisure facilities for visitors.
Furthermore, the lake is also home to many NGOs, such as the Lake Malawi Conservation Trust and the African Wildlife Foundation, who are dedicated to protecting the lake and its diverse wildlife. Indigenous communities also have an important part to play in conserving the lake. They can be beneficially involved in the lake’s conservation efforts through sustainable fishing and hunting, as well as educational initiatives to increase awareness of the lake’s importance and the problems it faces.
Investment Needed to Protect Lake Malawi
Governing bodies have invested money in the protection of Lake Malawi, however more needs to be done to ensure its future sustainability. International organisations such as the World Wildlife Fund and Wetlands International are calling for additional investment in the lake’s aquatic habitats, as well as investment in research, education and outreach initiatives.
The Lake Malawi International Conference, held in 2016, highlighted the need for increased collaboration between international organisations and governments to protect the lake and its resources. The UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also includes five targets that are relevant to the protection of Lake Malawi and its resources.
The Importance Of Maintaining The Integrity Of Lake Malawi
The need to protect Lake Malawi has never been more important. It is home to a wealth of biodiversity and its importance to local and international populations cannot be overstated. By protecting the lake, its indigenous species can be maintained and restored, as well as its surrounding landscapes and habitats. It is also essential to the water supply of its surrounding countries, which are increasingly reliant on its resources.
Therefore, it is essential that the Lake Malawi ecosystems are safeguarded, not only to protect its wildlife, but also its economy and people. If this is done then the lake can provide an abundance of natural, ecological and cultural value for many years to come.
