Facts About Lake Malawi Facts You should Know

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Lake Malawi the second deepest fresh water lake in the world

Lake Malawi was first reached by David Livingstone 1859 when he coined the name “Lake of stars” Lake Malawi is one of the greatest African lakes. Globally Lake Malawi is the 9th largest lake. It is also called Lake Nyasa.

Geographical Position

This fresh water body is located between three countries, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is the second deepest lake in Africa.

Dimensions of the lake

Total surface area the lake covers 29 600 square kilometers

Maximum length 580km

Maximum depth is 700 meters, is the second deepest lake in the world

Economy

The lake plays a vital role in the economy of the country Malawi.

Fishermen who live along the shore mainly depend on lake harvests for their daily living.  Fishersmen sell fish from the lake  locally and some is exported to other countries.

Proceeds from fish sells are used to pay education for school going children, to build houses, and find food. Lake Malawi is a great source of fish protein. It has over 1000 chilchids fishes.

The lake has the largest number of fish species in the world. Other fishes found here include Kampango, Chambo, Catfish and mbuna.

Additionally, Lake Malawi has a lot of places of tourists’ attraction.

Others

Lake Nyasa is also habitant for Monkeys, hippopotamus, crocodiles and several birds.  Part of the lake on Malawi shores is Lake Malawi National park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Malawians love the lake and most people visit the lake for celebrations. Water layers of Lake Malawi do not mix.

Where to stay?

Along the shores of this great lake are good lodges. Popular lakeshore districts include Mangochi, salima, Nkhotakota, Nkhatabay and Dwangwa

Challenges

Overfishing is the main challenge facing the lake. The other challenge is pollution of the lake. Due to these problems some fish species are becoming extinct.

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