By Chisomo Kambandanga

Nkhata Bay, May 5, Mana: District Commissioner (DC) for Nkhata Bay District, Rodgers Newa, has asked people living along Nkhata riverbank in the area of Senior Chief Timbiri and surrounding areas to evacuate to uplands for safety of their lives and properties due to continuous heavy rainfall.

Newa made the statement on Sunday at Kakumbi Village during a monitoring visit to affected households to assess the extent of the damage caused by the rains.

"We are here to assess the extent of the damage that the heavy rains have caused here at Kakumbi Village and other areas. As you can see, in most parts, nature is just claiming its course as these houses were constructed along the riverbank.

"My advice is that these people must move out with immediate effect to avoid further damage, as we will keep on receiving these rains up to next month," Newa said.

According to Newa, the heavy rainfall, which started on Saturday, May 3, 2025, has affected over 31 households at Nkhata Bay Boma, with some having their roofs blown off.

"We are still receiving reports from across the district as most areas like Traditional Authorities Fukamapiri, Timbiri and others are affected, causing damage to bridges, roads, crops. We will give a final report in due course," Newa added.

He further said the council has identified a temporary shelter for the affected households at Nkhata Bay Boma and will continue providing relief food where necessary while intensifying awareness campaigns.

Councillor for Boma Ward, Syrian Adamana said the affected households are in dire need of food and some are being housed by neighbours and relatives.

One of the affected people, Mary Tobias from Kakumbi Village said she has lost all the food and expressed hope that government will help them as they are trying to recover to their normal life.