Africa-Press – Malawi. Mangochi is grappling with what activists are calling a worrying crisis involving residents resorting to dumping used diapers along the Palm Forest, turning a scenic landscape into a growing health hazard.
The environmentalists have raised alarm, warning that careless disposal of diapers is not only polluting the environment but also endangering lives.
CHIMALIRO—Diapers pollute water sourcesExecutive Director of Concerned Youth Organisation, Harvey Chimaliro, expressed concern about the situation, saying dumping waste anywhere is uncalled for.
“Diapers pollute water sources which can lead to deadly waterborne diseases. Residents must realise that their actions today will affect generations to come,” Chimaliro said.
Sustainable Development Goals stress responsible consumption and production, clean water and sanitation and sustainable cities and communities among others.
As a signatory to these global goals, Malawi has a responsibility to ensure proper waste management to safeguard public health and the environment.
Maria Yusuf, a local resident, said the lack of public refuse bins is a major factor contributing to irresponsible dumping.
“People are throwing diapers in the forest because they have nowhere else to put them. If authorities provided public bins, I am sure they would not be forced into this situation,” Yusuf said.
Mangochi Municipality Chief Executive Officer Ernest Kadzokoya acknowledged the severity of the problem and committed to urgent action.
He said his office had launched a plan to provide trucks that will regularly collect waste from residential areas.
“We understand the concerns raised by residents and environmentalists. This is our immediate solution while we explore more sustainable long-term measures,” Kadzokoya said.
Malawi is party to several international environmental treaties, including the Basel Convention on hazardous waste management, the Bamako Convention and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
All these agreements call for sustainable waste management practices that protect the environment and human health.
Experts stress that proper waste management is not only a local responsibility but also part of Malawi’s broader commitment to global sustainability and environmental protection.
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