MALAWI: Liwonde National Park Loses Thousands Meters Fence Wire To Theft And Vandalism

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Authorities at Liwonde National Park, have reported a significant loss of over 14,900 meters of fence wire due to theft and vandalism.

According to Shaibu Kadewere, Acting Park Manager for Liwonde and Mangochi, the development is affecting park operations, as essential resources are being diverted to replace the damaged property.

Kadewere made the revelation during a joint law enforcement meeting in Liwonde, which brought together magistrates and police officials from Machinga, Zomba, Mangochi, and Balaka districts.

He also highlighted that poaching, fishing, and killing of wild animals remain major challenges in the park.

However, Kadewere noted that despite these challenges, there has been progress in the punishment given by the court to perpetrators this quarter compared to the previous quarter. Nearly 50% of cases brought to court have resulted in custodial sentences, a significant improvement in the fight against wildlife crime.

Magistrate Austin Kamanga of Machinga court acknowledged that the courts in the district are handling numerous cases of theft and vandalism of the protected area’s fence wire. He assured that the judiciary will continue to take a strong stance against these crimes.

Machinga police officer-in-charge, Jane Mandala, said police will be working joint patrols with park rangers to ensure enough security and end the vice in the protected area. The joint effort aims to protect the park’s wildlife and infrastructure from further damage.

The meeting demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to work together in protecting Malawi’s natural resources and preserving the country’s wildlife heritage.