Residents of Kazembe Township in the City of Zomba face a heightened risk of contracting cholera following repeated sewage overflows from a house with a faulty toilet system in the area.
Community members say the rented house frequently experiences septic tank spillages, with sewage reportedly flowing into surrounding areas.
They allege that the property owners also dispose of toilet waste near neighboring homes, raising fears of contamination and the spread of diarrhea diseases.
Concerned residents have since appealed to the Zomba City Council to intervene, warning that the situation poses a serious public health threat.
One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said several attempts have been made to engage the property owners to address the faulty septic system, but no corrective action has been taken.
“There is already a cholera outbreak here, and Zomba District has also been affected. Our lives are at great risk,” the resident said.
When contacted for comment, Zomba City Council Director of Health, Patrick Mayalo, said he was not aware of the matter.
However, he assured residents that his office would conduct an inspection and take appropriate action if the allegations are confirmed.
In February alone, three cholera cases have been recorded in Zomba.
