Panic over Ilala voyage suspension
Transport challenges for people of Likoma and Chizumulu islands continue to worsen following the suspension of MV Ilala trips due to a strike that Malawi Shipping Company workers have been staging for two weeks now over low wages.
The development has caused panic for the islanders who rely on the vessel to travel to and from the mainland for various activities.
One businessman, Atrick Munthali, said it will be very difficult to travel by boat since it cannot accommodate each and everyone, hence their businesses will be affected.
Sub-Traditional Authority Mwase of Likoma said he would love if authorities at Malawi Shipping Company sorted out the wages issue with speed considering that MV Ilala is the only reliable means of transport for people of Chizumulu and Likoma.
Spokesperson for Malawi Shipping Company, Thomas Chafunya, said the issue is under discussion by management though it may take some time before the discussions are finalised.
Currently, people of Likoma and Chizumulu are using boats which are not safe due to strong winds on the lake.—Mana
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