The government says it will use existing laws against Presscane Limited for failing to comply with an influent management system proposed by the Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) and the National Water Resources Authority (NWRA), a situation that is harming people and natural resources around its evaporating ponds in Chikwawa District.

Minister of Agriculture Roza Mbilizi made the remarks on Monday after touring the company’s evaporating ponds, which spilled weeks ago into nearby homes and farms, creating a hazardous living environment for surrounding communities.

Following the visit, Mbilizi directed the company to compensate residents who have been affected by the spill.

In response, Presscane Chief Executive Officer Bryson Khomawanthu acknowledged the spill but said the company is working to resolve the problem.

He added that the company would engage the Chikwawa District Council to follow proper procedures in handling compensation for the affected communities.

Residents in the area have been raising concerns about the company’s influent since 2017.

Some community members report having developed respiratory illnesses and damage to iron roofing sheets, which they attribute to acidic fumes evaporating from the ponds.

The Minister of Agriculture was accompanied during the visit by the Minister of Natural Resources, Alfred Gangata.