ANALYSIS | Plumbing the depths of Malawi’s non-revenue water crisis
In the heart of Malawi’s water sector, a silent crisis is unfolding. Non-revenue water, the water produced but not paid for, is draining the country’s resources, leaving water utilities struggling to stay afloat.
Speaking on the sidelines of a stakeholders’ meeting in Lilongwe on Thursday, Principal Secretary (PS) for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, Dr. Henry Manford Njoloma, describes the situation as a “huge loss to the production system”.
Njoloma disclosed that Malawi’s five water boards are grappling with this challenge, with non-revenue water ranging from 26% to 46% across the country, against an international standard of 25%.
The causes are multifaceted: illegal connections, inaccurate metering, and leaky pipelines are just a few of the culprits.
“We’re not happy with the current percentages,” Dr. Njoloma said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the issue. “We’re bringing together experts, motivating staff, and seeking investment to replace old pipes and upgrade systems.”
Vitumbiko Mkandawire, Executive Director of the Water Services Association of Malawi (WASAMA), stresses the need for collective action. “This is a serious issue affecting the performance of utilities and the quantity of water available,” he says.
So, what’s the solution? Experts are promoting performance improvement plans, district metering, and mapping innovations. The Southern Region Water Board has already seen success with these approaches, and others are following suit.
And Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is already on board, supporting the five water boards to reduce non-revenue water.
JICA Chief Representative Tanaka Yukinari said his agency is providing capacity development support and expertise.
“We have knowledge and experience in addressing non-revenue water. We’re here to support Malawi’s water sector,” said Yukinari.
The numbers are stark: non-revenue water is costing Malawi dearly. But with concerted effort and collaboration, there’s hope.
As Dr. Njoloma put it, “We can manage to collect as much revenue as possible” and keep the taps flowing.
The stakes are high, but the opportunity is clear. It’s time to plug the leaks and turn the tide on non-revenue water in Malawi.
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