a water supply system is saving people and animals in Malawi

We protect the animals of Liwonde National Park by promoting the livelihoods of the Chikolongo community.

Problem

Liwonde National Park is located in Southern Malawi. It is home to hippos, crocodiles, elephants and the Shire River—the area’s only major water source.

For the Chikolongo community, a small village near the park, the river is a lifeline. For many years, villagers came to Liwonde to gather water.

While there, some engaged in illegal snaring and fishing. It seemed like a problem with no solution. Villagers needed water, but the animals needed protection.

Solution

IFAW tried something new. Working closely with leaders in the Chikolongo community, we devised a plan to pump water from the Shire River to the village, ensuring access to clean water for villagers and safety for wildlife.

And, to help discourage poaching, we established a community fish farm and developed an incentive system to encourage the growth of commercial crops.

Impact

Since the Chikolongo Livelihood Project began, there have been zero incidents of human-wildlife conflict.