By Mabvuto Kalawa
Correspondent, Malawi Freedom Network

Residents of Nathenje in Lilongwe District have expressed growing concern over the indiscriminate disposal of used disposable diapers along the M1 Road, warning that the practice poses serious health and environmental risks to surrounding communities.

Community members say piles of used diapers have become a common sight along sections of the Lilongwe-Blantyre M1 Highway, particularly around Maye Village, raising fears of disease outbreaks and environmental degradation.

Speaking in an interview, Joseph Manda of Makokola Village under Traditional Authority Chadza described the practice as unacceptable and called on those responsible to stop dumping diapers along the roadside.Nathenje Parish Says Goodbye to Sister Agatha

“This is a very bad practice. We are not happy because it violates environmental principles and puts our communities at risk,” said Manda.

Another resident, Mrs. Fodya, who works for Paramount Commodities and resides in Village Headman Kachola, said the discarded diapers have become a health hazard to local residents.

She believes many of those responsible are travellers from urban areas who dispose of used diapers while passing through Nathenje.

“It is unfortunate that some people throw used diapers here instead of disposing of them properly. This puts the health of our community at risk,” she said.

Mr. Chifodya of Maye Village also expressed concern, saying the continued dumping of diapers threatens the well-being of people living near the affected areas.

He appealed to both residents and travellers to work together in protecting the environment by disposing of waste responsibly.Japan Commits to Supporting Expansion of M1 Road From Malangalanga to Nathenje

Former councillor candidate Gift Mochi described the situation as alarming and pledged to engage the relevant authorities to address the problem.

He warned that the continued accumulation of used diapers could contribute to outbreaks of waterborne diseases if left unchecked.

Mochi also criticized the local council for what he described as inadequate monitoring of illegal waste disposal along the highway.

He said communities are prepared to work with authorities to identify and report individuals found dumping waste illegally.

Health specialist Geoffrey Mangulenje said improper disposal of used diapers poses significant public health and environmental risks.

He said health officials would work with local communities and other stakeholders to raise awareness and develop measures to eliminate the practice.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the relevant local council authorities were unsuccessful at the time of publication.Communities around Nathenje turn to maize stalks as source of firewood

Residents are now calling for stronger enforcement of waste management regulations and increased public awareness to protect both the environment and public health in Nathenje.