Malawian adventurer and nature explorer Mervis Mwai Maigwa, popularly known as Travel With Mervis, has set social media abuzz after sharing captivating photos from her exploration of Mumbo Island in Lake Malawi.

Among the images, one photo showcasing her striking figure drew significant attention, sparking conversations online.

In her post, Mervis wrote about her thrilling solo adventure on the island, saying:

“That one time I went on a solo exploration of the trails on Mumbo Island and almost got stung by friends of bees (mavu) in the cave.”

Mumbo Island, nestled within Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its untouched beauty, clear turquoise waters, and abundant biodiversity. Known for its eco-friendly approach, the island boasts no permanent structures or electricity. Visitors are treated to simple yet comfortable accommodations that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings.

The island offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, hiking through lush trails and rocky terrain, and exploring caves. Its crystal-clear waters are home to colorful cichlid fish, found only in Lake Malawi, making it a hotspot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Mervis’ photos and vibrant storytelling have not only highlighted the island’s breathtaking scenery but also inspired many to consider eco-tourism and explore Malawi’s natural treasures. Mumbo Island remains a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility, adventure, and a deep connection with nature.

Her post has sparked increased interest in the island, underscoring the allure of Malawi’s hidden gems.

Photos:

Malawians have converged on a tourist’s facebook page to rebuff allegations made against their treasury Lake Malawi.

The tourist, who owns a Facebook page by the name On Her Bike, posted on Wednesday that she contracted Bilharzia followed by other infections after swimming in Lake Malawi when she visited the country.

“I haven’t had a good run with my health for the last couple of months. One issue led to another…It started with Bilharzia (as a result of swimming in Lake Malawi) which led to a bladder infection, followed by a urinary tract infection, and on top of that I got the shingles,” she posted.

However, the post did not go well with many Malawians who think her health complications have no link to swimming in Lake Malawi.

The tourist was quickly lambasted by many Malawians including known celebrities like Gwamba.

In disagreeing with her, Gwamba commented, “Thousands of people have posted about swimming in lake Malawi before, you are the first one to ever get shingles. Perhaps it’s not Lake Malawi? Perhaps you had the infection already before visiting Malawi”?

Another angry Malawian, Joy Mumderanji Chinyama commented, “You lost your health somewhere else. Not because of the beautiful waters of Lake Malawi. That lake is our treasure don’t talk bad about it….Bilharzia, Urinary track infection plus shingles, you are blaming it all on Lake Malawi? Go and have a blood test. Don’t come to Malawi again.”

Also defending Lake Malawi was radio 2FM’s veteran DJ Mike C saying, “Bilharzia? in Lake Malawi? Did u get the Lake Malawi water tested? And the shingles? Your story is not adding up……Mwadwalikatu Chemwa”.

According to the overall comments, it showed there was indeed no way the tourist could’ve contracted the infections in the way she described.

Lake Malawi is the ninth largest lake in the world. It is a fresh water lake and forms most of the eastern border between Malawi and Mozambique. The lake is the third largest lake in Africa. Its maximum depth is some 704 metres (2310 feet), making it the fourth deepest lake in the world.

Lake Malawi is a meromictic lake, meaning that its water layers do not mix.

With the promise of a vaccine in the near future, individuals across the globe have set their sights on their next vacation, with many nations anticipating a surge in tourism as travel becomes feasible once again. Some countries – France, Italy, and the Netherlands, to name a few – have been popular destinations for decades, but certain others are severely underrated when it comes to tourism. While these five nations tend to fly under the radar, each one is equipped with abundant natural beauty, a fascinating culture, and a rich history that will turn any visitor into a lifelong fan.

Eswatini

Located on the eastern edge of South Africa, this tiny nation gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1968 and is one of the few remaining countries on earth to be governed with an absolute monarchy system. Despite the country’s small size, Eswatini is home to a surprisingly diverse array of landscapes, ranging from the highlands of the northwest to the wildlife-laden southeastern grasslands. For those hoping to spot native African species in their natural habitat, few destinations can compare to Mkhaya Game Reserve, a protected region that’s rife with indigenous Nguni cattle alongside antelope, hippos, buffalo, and a surprisingly large amount of white and black rhinoceroses.

Saint Lucia

Dominated by towering volcanic peaks and lush rainforest, this Caribbean nation was once known as the “Helen of the West Indies” thanks to its spectacular beauty. While the island’s interior is largely pristine wilderness, the perimeter of Saint Lucia is lined with blissful sandy beaches and fascinating settlements, including the capital city Castries as well as the former French capital, Soufrière. An ideal destination for those in search of fine drinking and dining experiences, Saint Lucia is home to a blended food scene that incorporates British, French, and Caribbean elements as well as a booming rum industry.

North Macedonia

A former Yugoslavian nation, this country draws its name from Macedonia, a historic region that’s best known as the birthplace of Alexander the Great. The national capital, Skopje, is a particularly interesting destination thanks to its high concentration of historic relics, ranging from the 6th-century Skopje Fortress to the Skopje Aqueduct. For a truly idyllic experience, pay a visit to the western reaches of North Macedonia, where Lake Ohrid lies in wait for eager travelers. One of the oldest lakes in all of Europe, this scenic body of water is lined with traditional architecture, picturesque beaches, and a wealth of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Malawi

A nation dominated by water, roughly one third of this African state consists of Lake Malawi, the fourth-largest freshwater lake on earth by volume. This titanic body of water is a particularly prominent tourist destination, coming equipped with idyllic beaches as well as a spectacular snorkeling scene thanks to the lake’s large number of colorful endemic fish. After spending time lounging lakeside, visitors should make the trek south to Liwonde National Park, a prominent reserve that was established back in 1973. Though the park is best known for its high concentration of elephants, there are also opportunities to spot buffalo, rhinoceroses, cheetahs, and a vast array of native bird species as well.

Vanuatu

Home to roughly eighty volcanic islands, the Pacific nation of Vanuatu gained independence from both France and the United Kingdom in 1980. This idyllic archipelago is rife with incredible snorkeling experiences, allowing visitors to spot sea turtles, tropical fish, colorful reefs, and even the elusive dugong, a close relative of the manatee. Be sure to spend an ample amount of time on land as well – Vanuatu is packed full of steaming jungles and jagged peaks, with many ambitious hikers choosing to trek to the ridge of Mount Yasur, an active volcano located on Tanna Island.

Source: Forbes

Bordering Tanzania and Mozambique, Malawi is a relatively small country in southeastern Africa. However, it is actually home the fourth largest freshwater lake in the world (by volume), Lake Malawi.

Lake Malawi is home to more species of fish than any other lake in the world, and Liwonde National Park in the southern part of the country is home to lots of wildlife as well, including: elephants, hippos, lions and black rhinos, which are a member of the endangered species list.

Every year, the founders of We Are Travel Girls, take a group of 12 women to Malawi for their annual Malawi Safari & Charity Trip. We Are Travel Girls is a global travel community that started with the intention to “inspire, connect, educate and empower female travelers around the world”.

The organization shares travel tips and tricks via its popular travel website and collection of social media channels, amongst other resources. I spoke with founders, Becky van Dijk and Vanessa Rivers about why they have fallen in love with the country and why they keep going back.

Here are six reasons you need to visit Malawi according to the founders of We Are Travel Girls.

Malawi – Founders of We Are Travel Girls, Becky van Dijk and Vanessa Rivers in Malawi on their annual charity trip

1) GOING ON A RIVER SAFARI IN LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK

Liwonde National Park is located southeast of the capital, Lilongwe, near the Mozambique border. The Shire River runs alongside the park and serves as a watering hole for elephants, hippos, black rhinos, crocodiles, leopards, antelopes, and more.

Taking a river safari here is like stepping into the Lion King. Becky and Vanessa describe seeing elephants, warthogs, meerkats, and baboons gather at the river’s banks as a “once in a lifetime experience.” “Seeing such an array of creatures come together to drink water, play and hunt for food is out of this world. And doing so from the river itself is a much nicer experience than from a noisy jeep.”

Malawi – A group of elephants drinking water on the Shire River

2) DRINKING GIN & TONICS

Most African Safaris usually end with a “sundowner” and those in Malawi are no different. “In Malawi, we discovered how incredibly tasty Malawi Gin is, and that it of course pairs very nicely with tonic and a magical African sunset! Malawi Gin has long had something of a cult following among British tourists.

They’d return home from vacations to the former British Colony raving about the local gin and once we tried it, we could easily understand why!” Becky and Vanessa added. “If you are doing a river or land safari in Liwonde National Park make sure to request that your safari guide brings along Malawi Gin & Tonics so you can enjoy a special G&T sundowner from your safari vehicle or boat overlooking the Shire River.”

3) MEETING THE WARM PEOPLE OF MALAWI

Frequently referred to as ‘The Warm Heart of Africa,’ Malawi is known for its welcoming people. Their hospitality makes visitors feel at home as soon as they step off the plane. According to Becky and Vanessa, “Their wealth of happiness is infectious. The value they put on family and relationships makes it an amazing place to return to year after year.”

4) EXPLORING MUMBO ISLAND ON LAKE MALAWI

Lake Malawi – A dinner set up on the banks of Lake Malawi

For the luxury traveler looking for an untouched paradise, Mumbo Island in the middle of Lake Malawi is the place to go. Named one of the Sunday Times’ Top 100 Places to Stay in 2017, this private island is a must.

The island is only a half a mile in diameter and has never been inhabited by a population. It is a pristine, natural, oasis offering visitors a luxurious and sustainable travel experience. If you are truly looking to unplug, Mumbo has no cell service or electricity so you can truly get that digital detox we all need.

You’ll arrive on Mumbo Island, turn off your devices, leave them in your room and start connecting with nature. The wooden stilted cabins overlooking the turquoise water of Lake Malawi are the definition of rustic luxury. “We recommend leaving the doors to the balcony open and so you can wake up to the incredible sunrise and the birdsong of the island.” Becky and Vanessa mentioned. “On our Malawi Safari & Charity Trip our guests love taking advantage of the delicious meals, kayaking, yoga, hiking, sunset boat rides and evening campfires (with wine of course!).”

5) VISITING THE SATEMWA TEA ESTATES

Tea is a major crop in Malawi. Tea estates like Satemwa, which is a third-generation family-owned business offers tours and tastings.

Malawi – View of the Satemwa Tea Estate fields

Founded in 1923, Satemwa is one of the last family-owned tea estates in the region, as most have been purchased by large corporations. Guests can spend the night at Satemwa and enjoy sundowners overlooking the rolling tea fields, estate tours, and private tea tastings.

6) GIVING BACK THROUGH RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

While Malawi is a country full of beauty and amazing people, it is also important to remember that the average person in Malawi struggles to live on less than $1 a day.

Tourism is a significant part of the economy and as it is still a hidden gem, foreign dollars can stretch far here. However, it is crucial when visiting developing countries such as Malawi to ensure being a respectful visitor. “We Are Travel Girls strives to work with tour companies that give back to the communities we visit so we are proud to have partnered with The Responsible Safari Company to show our guests the best of Malawi during our annual Malawi Safari & Charity Trip.” Says Becky and Vanessa. “The Responsible Safari Company is committed to creating sustainable growth [in Malawi] through social enterprise, reducing dependence on foreign aid and driving tourism that generates income for rural communities in Africa.”

Malawi – Co-founder of We Are Travel Girls, Vaness Rivers in Malawi on a river safari

A portion of the proceeds from the Malawi Safari & Charity Trip are donated to Malawi to go towards local resources and infrastructure. Becky and Vanesa have also worked to raise through their, “Travel Girls Giving Program” over $15,000 for school children in need in Malawi.

Source:Forbes.com

Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa in Tanzania and Lago Niassa in Mozambique, is an African Great Lake located between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. It is the ninth largest lake in the world and the third largest and second deepest lake in Africa.

Also known as Lake Nyasa, Lake Malawi forms Malawi’s boundary with Mozambique and Tanzania. It is the third largest East Rift Valley lakes of East Africa.

Measuring 560-580km long and 75km wide, Lake Malawi features a depression in the north central part, marking the deepest point at 706m and 400m at the shallowest point. It has 14 inlets with the Ruhuru River being the largest, and has an outlet in the Shire River, a tributary to the Zambezi River.

At the Southern end of the lake is Lake Malawi National Park, which is home to number of animals. It is also home to a large baobab tree, believed to be 800 years old, where Dr. David Livingstone gave sermons and talk with missionaries.  There are also graves of missionaries in the park.

The UNESCO inscribed the Lake Malawi National Park into the World Heritage site in 1984. It acknowledged its natural beauty and outstanding example of biological evolution, as well as, its importance of the biodiversity conservation. 

One can access the Lake along its shore and take part in various activities including kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling and water skiing. Cruises all the way to the Shire River is also possible.

Along the shores are also a number of game lodges for visitors to spend their visit. Other places to find accommodation include Senga Bay, Dwanga, Nkhata Bay and Karonga, which is one important archaeological centres in Malawi.

Police have instituted a search for a 38-year-old fisherman who went missing after going out on a fishing mission on Lake Malawi.

part of Lake Malawi

Karonga police have identified the missing person as Kelvin Gowa who comes from Mgoyera village in the area of traditional authority Wasambo in Karonga district.

According to police report, Molija Ndhlovi who is the father to the missing person told the police that his son went missing on Tuesday, 26^th June 2018.

“Facts are that on the material date and time the missing person went for fishing using his canoe and never returned as usual. Later that day, some fishermen found his canoe floating with his fishing nets, “according to police report.

Following that, villagers went to report the matter to officers at Chilumba police post and Malawi Navy Army Soldiers who embarked on a search that proved futile.

Meanwhile, inquiries and investigations are still in progress to trace the missing person.

Just 9 months after a rare fish called Mkunga was discovered on Lake Malawi, another Mkunga fish has been found and pictures are making rounds on social media.

According to reports, the Mkunga fish which is also known as Mnjolo can measure up to 1.7 metres and weighs over 20kg`s if put on a scale.

The fish is among 700 rare species of fish that are found on Lake Malawi. Mkunga fish resembles exactly as a snake in a way that it can possibly be mistaken for a snake.

Sources say the name Mkunga is taken from Yao language.

Just like Bombe fish, Mkunga is said to be a delicious fish but can have side effects to people whose skin is allergic to some foods.

This comes in after another Mkunga fish was caught on the beautiful Lake Malawi just last year.

In a bid to end illegal fishing, the department of fisheries has confiscated over 58 kilos of baby chambo from Nkhotakota market following a patrol conducted by the fisheries enforcement section.

the confiscated Chambo

Rodgers Makwinja who is Nkhotakota District Fisheries Officer said illegal fishing in the district is putting Chambo species under serious threat of extinction.

He told Malawi news Agency that most fishermen are used to catch Chambo fishes before they mature for consumption.

“Chambo fish is also at the verge of extinction due to massive destruction of bleeding and nursery sites. Not only that, but water quality degradation due to heavy siltation caused by poor cultivation methods which is experienced in the upland is also causing a serious threat to chambo`s life in Lake Malawi, “said Makwinja.

Revelations show that in the past years Chambo was contributing 70 percent of the total catch but the percentage has been reduced to 5 percent now.

To end these wrong practices, Makwinja said the department of fisheries has now partnered with Ripple Africa to regulate the bleeding and flow of fish in the country.

Meanwhile, the confiscated Chambo was donated to Nkhotakota District Hospital.

Nkhotakota police spokesperson, Ignatius Esau has confirmed the death of a 52-year-old man who died after drowning in Lake Malawi.

The incident happened on Saturday, September 2 when the deceased identified as Mwala Chirwa visited the lake for swimming.

a view of other side of lake Malawi

“Chirwa did not report back home and this prompted his relatives to start searching for him. His body was found floating dead on September 5 2017 but in a decomposed state,” said Esau.

A postmortem had revealed that Chirwa`s death was due to suffocation.

He hailed from Yegama village, T/A Fukamalaza in Nkhatabay.

President Mutharika on Tuesday reaffirmed his government’s position that the Salima-Lilongwe Lake Malawi Project will continue.

Speaking on arrival from Blantyre, President Mutharika said that it is a matter of urgency that the project should be implemented.
‘If nothing is done, we will have a crisis, there will be no water in this city [Lilongwe],’said Mutharika to the gathered thousands at Biwi Triangle.

The government of Malawi led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International cooperation, Honorable Francis Kasaila participated in the mediation talks over Lake Malawi Boundary Disputes with the Tanzanian government in Pretoria, South Africa.

Hon Francis Kasaila led the Malawi team

The high level mediation team (HLMT) was being led by his Excellency Joaquim Chissano, the former president of Mozambique and the former president of South Africa Thabo Mbeki.

Accompanying Kasaila, was Honorable Samuel Tembenu, SC Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and other senior government officials.

Honorable Samuel Tembenu accompanied Kasaila

The meeting which was a follow up to the last one which was held in Mozambique, Maputo in 2014 took place in Centurion, Pretoria and had run from 11^th to 12^th July 2017.

It is said that the talks in Pretoria, South Africa, were held in a cordial manner, reflective of the long standing relationship between the two countries. During the talks, it was evident that there is commitment on both sides towards an amicable resolution of the dispute.

Notwithstanding the above, during the Meeting, the Malawi Delegation reiterated the position of the Government of the Republic of Malawi on the Lake Malawi Boundary Dispute with the United Republic of Tanzania. Malawi Government restated and re-affirmed its position that the Lake Malawi Boundary between the countries is the shoreline of Lake Malawi as established by Article 1(2) of the 1890 Anglo-German Treaty.

beautiful Lake Malawi

The Malawi Delegation also opposed the unacceptable conduct of making unilateral decisions such as production of Maps purporting to change the current Malawi/Tanzania Boundary which Malawi rejected. It asserted that both parties should avoid taking provocative actions which can escalate tension.

The Malawi Delegation further expressed Government’s commitment of respecting African boundaries existing at the time of independence in consonance with the Organization of African Unity (OAU) /African Union (AU) Declarations.

Having heard from both Delegations, the HLMT proposed that it should brief and consult with Their Excellencies Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and Dr. John Pombe Magufuli, for Their Excellencies’ further guidance on the resolution of the dispute.

In the spirit of seeking a solution on the dispute, the two Delegations accepted the proposal and further agreed that, the process of consulting the two Heads of State by the HLMT should take place in not more than three months time from 12th July, 2017, after which, further direction shall be availed by the HLMT.

Meanwhile, The Government of the Republic of Malawi has promised to keep the general public and the nation informed of any further developments on the matter.

No one’s going to claim Africa has all the best beaches in the world, but it has some of them.
From the wind-tickled shores of the Seychelles to the haunting, seal-dappled coast of Namibia, the continent’s sandy fringe is varied and dramatic.
Here’s a small sample of Africa’s best beaches.
1. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

Sharm el-Sheikh has become Egypt’s resort capital for good reason: the warm, crystal waters and wide beaches are great for swimmers and sunbathers and it’s the gateway to some of the best diving in the world, along the reefs of the Red Sea.
Good to know: If you want a day on the beach but not in the sun, Sharm el Maya offers good shade.
2. Watamu, Kenya

The smooth white beach of Watamu, which slides gently into shallow, turquoise water, forms part of the Malindi Marine Reserve Park, a marine protected area. The snorkeling and diving around the offshore coral formations is said to be the best in East Africa.
Good to know: Watamu is an important breeding ground for green and hawksbill turtles.
3. Diani Beach, Kenya

Diani Beach is an idyllic 20-kilometer stretch of palm-fringed beach is kept pristine and clear of seaweed by the coral reef just offshore. This coastal paradise has become one of Kenya’s most popular beaches.
Good to know: Want to learn to kitesurf? Lessons are available here.
4. Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania

It’s tough to choose the best beaches on this laid-back island, but Nungwi, on the north of the Zanzibar, is one of them.
What was once a simple fishing village and dhow-building center has become a popular holiday destination, where palms casually amble onto a beach that dissolves gradually into shades of turquoise.
Good to know: At sunset, white-sailed dhows leave from the boat yard. Have your camera ready.
5. Chitimba, Malawi

There isn’t much to Chitimba besides a peaceful stretch of inland beach — the lake the beach borders is one of the biggest in Africa. Wrapped with densely vegetated hills and trees that filter down to the edge of the sand, it’s a quiet piece of freshwater paradise.
If you’re feeling energetic, Chitimba Camp’s guides can take you walking into the surrounding hills.
Good to know: Ichthyologists say there could be up to 1,000 species of fish in Lake Malawi.
6. Anse Soleil, Mahe, Seychelles

Jungle and boulders tumble down a hillside and into the small beach and bay of Anse Soleil in the southwest of Mahe. It’s peaceful, private and a very romantic beach from which to watch the sun set.
Good to know: The simple cafe on the beach serves some of the best seafood in the area.
7. Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles

The sunrise from the quiet beach of Belle Mare, on the east coast of Mauritius, is worth the bleary-eyed wake-up call. Although it’s known for its fine white sand, you’re likely to find a secluded space along this barely-developed stretch of beach.
The water is calm and shallow; just what you want for wallowing away lazy days.
9. Ifaty, Madagascar

If you’ve always longed to relax on a white stretch of beach where shade is provided by lazy palm trees, not striped umbrellas, Ifaty, on the southwest coast of Madagascar, could be your answer.
This stretch of coastline, lined in parts by fishermen’s houses built mostly from natural materials, is flanked by coral reef, which you can explore with goggles and a snorkel or on the surface from a colorful dugout canoe.
Good to know: You could catch sight of whales if you visit in July or August.
10. Tofo Beach, Mozambique

A sandy eight-kilometer stretch of beach with gorgeous, clear water is what you can expect from Tofo in Mozambique.
It’s perfect for beach-lollers, sand-frolickers and further out to sea, divers and fishermen have good opportunities to express themselves too.
Good to know: If you’re keen on surfing or fly fishing, the quieter beach of Tofino is your best bet.
11. Bazaruto, Mozambique

For an idyllic tropical island beach, Bazaruto, the namesake of Bazaruto Archipelago, wins hands-down.
The island’s lazy sand beaches stretch forever into clear turquoise water, before dropping off into the Indian Ocean, and palm trees dangle over the beach creating perfect cocktail-sipping shade.
Good to know: Bazaruto Archipelago is renowned for its diving opportunities.
12. Uvongo, South Africa
Situated at the mouth of the Ivungu River mouth, Uvongo beach has a shallow lagoon, perfect for little ones to splash about in. Hire a pedallo and paddle to the base of the 23-meter-high waterfall that drops into the lagoon.
Good to know: At low tide, take a net and explore the rock pools at the south end of the beach.
13. Coffee Bay, Wild Coast, South Africa
Coffee Bay on South Africa’s Wild Coast is beautifully wild. With cliffs that plummet and green hills that roll into the turbulent waters of the Indian Ocean, this is one moody beach that will take your breath away.
Hole In The Wall (eight kilometers up the road from Coffee Bay) is a spectacular rock just out to sea at the mouth of the Mpako River.
Good to know: The best way to see this beautiful stretch of coastline is to walk it.
14. Camps Bay, South Africa
On a summer’s day, you’ll struggle to find a place to lay your towel among all the beautiful bodies lazing about on Camps Bay, probably Cape Town’s most popular beach.
The road next to the beach is lined with cafes and bars, themselves filled with young trendies — pack your best boardies or bikini. The Clifton beaches, next to Camps Bay, offer more privacy among the boulders.
Good to know: Get even further from the crowds at Blouberg beach, where you can capture spectacular sunsets and take postcard photos of Table Mountain across Table Bay.

15. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
There can be few beaches as hauntingly beautiful as Namibia’s Skeleton Coast.
This wide, wild, rugged stretch of beach between the Swakop and Kunene rivers is often shrouded with fog — the result of the cold air over the Atlantic meeting the warm air of the Namib Desert — and the beach has become a graveyard for ships that run aground in the shallow, rocky waters.
Good to know: Expect to see lots of seals and marine bird life near the wrecks.
16. Swakopmund, Namibia
What is a beach if it’s not a playground? Swakompund in Namibia has reinvented itself as an adventure center, with fishing, surfing, kayaking, quad biking and sand boarding.
Good to know: Swakopmund is often described as being more German than Germany — so eat at the Bavarian-style Swakopmund Brauhaus restaurant.
17. Loango National Park, Gabon
The beaches of Loango National Park in Gabon have become famous for their surfing hippos — but you can also see elephants, buffaloes, gorillas and leopards on the sand.
The uninhabited coastline of the park is more than 100 kilometers long, and offers good sightings of dolphins and humpback and killer whales.
Good to know: Your best chance of seeing the surfing hippos is January. From September to May you’re likely to see forest elephants and red forest buffaloes on the beach; October to February is turtle nesting season.
18. Beyin Beach, Ghana
What you’re likely to remember about the beautiful sandy arc of remote Beyin beach are the tall, soaring palms along its edge. It’s a classic African working beach, and you can expect to watch about 100 men pulling in enormous seine nets filled with fish.
Good to know: The stilted Nzulezo village can be reached by taking a dugout boat from the irrigation canal across the road from the beach.
19. Banana Beach, Sao Tome and Príncipe
You’ll struggle to find a quieter, more perfect shoreline than Banana Beach on the tiny island of Príncipe, off Africa’s west coast.
It boasts clear, shallow waters, forest-fringed edges and, quite likely, not another tourist in sight. Hard to beat the completely laid-back atmosphere of the island, too.
Good to know: Some of the world’s best deep-sea fishing waters are off the coast of Príncipe.
20. River No. 2 Beach, Freetown, Sierra Leone
There’s a real sense of space and being in the middle of nowhere at River No. 2 Beach just outside Freetown in Sierra Leone, with its pure white sand and a backdrop of lush, vegetated mountains.
Good to know: If you can tear yourself away from the beach, hire a canoe from the local development association and paddle up the river to a waterfall.
21. Cap Skirring, Senegal
A wide bay with a flat beach fringed on one side by unspoilt dune vegetation and on the other, the corduroy waves of the Atlantic Ocean — Cap Skirring is one of the loveliest beaches of Casamance, which is in turn one of Senegal’s most beautiful regions.
There’s not been too much development in terms if tourism here, but a taxi ride to the white beach of Boucotte will get you even further from it all.
Good to know: Keen drummers can be entertained at the nearby villages of Kafountine and Abéné.
22. Chaves Beach, Boa Vista, Cape Verde
At remote Chaves Beach on Boa Vista, a striking expanse of curvy, wind-carved sand dunes eventually run down into the Atlantic. With its open landscape and soft sand, this desert island is a sunbather’s paradise. Chaves beach is isolation at its most lovely.
Good to know: Love seafood? Ask one of the local fishermen to catch your favorite.
23. Essaouira, Morocco
The sprawling beach of Essaouira offers ample space for travelers wanting to soak up some sunshine in this very laid back Moroccan town — but it’s the wind and waves that attract high numbers of wind- and kite-surfers in summer, and surfers in winter.
Further around the bay away from the harbor is a castle that’s said to have been the inspiration for Jimi Hendrix’s “Castles Made of Sand.”
Good to know: Essaouira is beautiful at dusk. Walk to the harbor for great snapshots looking back towards the old town, along the city walls.
24. Dakhla, Morocco
The wind blows every day at Dakhla in the south of Morocco, making it perfect for kiteboarders. Flanked on one side by a huge, calm lagoon and good waves on the other, the beach is popular with beginners, novices and pro kiteboarders.
Good to know: The lagoon is calm and shallow, and good for snorkeling.
25. Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
While you’ll be lured to the beach at Sidi Bou Said, it’s the town on the cliff above it that has become the real appeal of this Tunisian haven.
The narrow cobbled streets are lined only with white buildings with blue doors, windows, shutters and balconies, bougainvillea tumbling down and palm trees reaching up.
Good to know: If Sidi Bou Said beach is too crowded, head to La Marsa. Note that while Sidi Bou Saïd definitely rates as one of Africa’s best beaches, check travel advisories before traveling to Tunisia, where the political situation is fluid.

Source: CNN

A strange fish that looks like a snake has been found on Lake Malawi and social media has reacted differently saying it’s not a fish but rather a snake as it looks.

The fish is called Mnkhunga, according to people who have a sharp mind about rare species of fishes.

This strange fish can be put in the same category of fishes which are called “Electric Eel”

But what are Electric eel fishes??

The electric eel fish has an elongated, cylindrical body, typically growing to about 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in length, and 20 kg (44 lb) in weight, making them the largest species of the Gymnotiformes.

sample of an electric eel fish

Their coloration is dark gray-brown on the back and yellow or orange on the belly. Mature males have a darker color on the belly. They have no scales. The mouth is square, and positioned at the end of the snout. The anal fin extends the length of the body to the tip of the tail.

The electric eel has three pairs of abdominal organs that produce electricity and they will shock you once you touch them.

Is this Mnkunga fish that was found on the beautiful Lake Malawi one of them???

See the fish below

President Peter Mutharika says his country is sole owner of Lake Malawi and has assured the citizens that his government will not tolerate any Government which are interested to twist the ownership information.

Speaking when he attended the National Water Day Commemorations under theme: ‘Wastewater Reuse for Sustainable Development’  in Mangochi on Wednesday, he spoke strongly that nobody should make a mistake to start thinking that they own part of lake, saying the whole Lake Malawi belongs to Malawi and this cannot change.

“Lake Malawi is ours. When I say this I mean the whole lake. Let nobody make a mistake about that because this lake is for our nation,” said Mutharika.

Mutharika said this in reaction to Tanzania claims to own some parts of the lake in the Northern Regions which started some years back.

He also appealed to people in the country to take care of Lake Malawi, which he said is the country’s national treasure.

“Don’t waste water, water is life. The World is going through the worst climate change, water resources are dwindling day by day therefore, we must find ways of preserving the water so that we have maximum supply throughout the year,” added Mutharika.

However, Mutharika maintains his ground to drill oil in the Lake Malawi despite calls from environmentalist to Malawi government to abandon the oil and gas project.

“Those who worry about our plans to explore and drill oil have no reason to fear. If we decide to drill oil in the lake, we will ensure to use on-shore clean technology.

“We value our Lake and we will ensure we implement measures to protect it, at all cost,” Mutharika concluded.

Three women have been found dead after earlier reportedly said that they were missing as the boat they were in capsized.

Their dead bodies have been found in Nkhotakota district at Bondo fishing dock. Nkhotakota police spokesperson Williams Kaponda has confirmed.

The three are identified as, Ruth Nyoni, 23, from Kombo village senior chief Malengachanzi in Nkhotakota district as well as Cecilia Kambemba, 32, and Mphatso Ndelemani, 27, both of Phangwa village senior chief Malengachanzi in Nkhotakota.

The women fell into the lake after their boat which had 15 passengers capsized. The boat was heading towards Sungu Island, Mtenje village and luckily other passengers were rescued.

People in the village are still searching for one woman, Chidaya Ayame who is still missing.

It is said that the boat capsized because it had many passengers and police in the district have advised all fishermen who use the waterways to refrain from that.

When Busy Signal landed in Malawi he had on a Puma top and one of the Facebook statuses I saw accused him of being one with a common vendor and not like a respected artiste.

He was ‘shabby’ because he was away from office. When Busy came on stage in Salima he was ready to host a TV show, blue creaseless shirt, greyish blazer atop slim fitting pants and black shoes so shiny a girl could use it as a mirror. He was fully official.

Busy is a high flier and despite that and the fat cheque he pocketed, he showed real humility in being in Africa. He did explicitly say this on several interludes specifically highlighting that he is but a son of Africa.

He promised a good show in his promo video and during his first press appearance in Malawi, and he fully lived up to it and he did remind us during the show. He said it’s not just in Malawi that he lights up the place, he said he gives a hundred percent even when performing to young school children.

He was said to give a two hour show, but 2 hours fifteen minutes later, he was still on stage and asking the crowd to request songs.

How he can sing that long without losing his voice is a mystery, especially because his dancehall lyrics are packed with words. He drank water only twice or thrice during the show and never left blanks between songs.

How he could infuse ‘Malawi’ into his lyrics and still not go out of sync is a mystery. He does his homework and planning, remember he was nicknamed Busy Signal because they said he was always busy.  His birth name is Glendale Goshia Gordon also known as Reanno Devon Gordon.

When he came onto the scene at the start of the millennium I wrote him off along his fellow new entrants such as Bling Dawg. Cheap lyrics, quasi-gangster affiliations and nothing to offer me, a hardcore reggae fan. I was wrong. Among his contemporaries, he and the likes of the now obsolete Vybz Kartel went on to become men of substance in the music industry.

And of those that made it, very few have managed to conquer Africa in the way Bob Marley, Culture, Yellowman, Shabba Ranks and Burning Spear did.  Busy has just done that. And he worked hard for this.

Since he came with his Tic Toc and Nuh Go a Jail Again, he has fine-tuned his game, to me I think he found out that Dancehall is hard to sell beyond the Islands and he slowly went soft, went reggae and brought in conscious lyrics to beef up the cheap dancehall clichés of sex, money and gangster culture.

And he sort of walked us through his journey, he did Nuh Go a Jail Again, Hustle Hard, Unknown Number, Bad Man Place, One more Night, Night Shift, Comfort Zone, Dreams of Brighter Days, Hard Drugs, Night Nurse among his many hits and also dished out a new release Shanty Townwhich is an updated version of Desmond Dekker’s 1967 hit of the same name.

Yes, 1967, and that is what makes Busy Busy… as a reggae don, I know the original Shanty Town song, but for the millions of millennials and slow learners they would never have heard of it if Busy never went to the archives to repackage the song for the current tastes.

My sister never knew of Gregory Isaacs until I told her that the Hard Drugs tune she likes from Busy is actually a Gregory Isaacs’.

That is why I say that where Bob Marley left, Busy Signal is continuing. Just this one trip to Malawi and Zimbabwe and recently elsewhere in Africa is as important a mission to Reggae as Morton Stanley’s and David Livingstone’s were to their masters.

It is one thing to get old songs, or write catchy ones but performing them is a different story. Ever seen Hip Hop awards where they just play a CD? Yes, boring and banal. Busy joins the cool Jamaicans who recreate the song on stage using a band replete with keyboards, drums and guitars. No CDs.

I mentioned the blazer? It came off soon, his blue shirt was to be drenched in gallons of sweat that streamed off his face and body – understandable since he did about twenty songs, some of which came in ragga stylee.

Busy does songs the audience can sing with, When he says ‘we nuh go a jail again’ the audience has no choice but to shout ‘oh no!’  Or the relatable ‘Bou-yah’ in the song of the same title.

Versatility is the Signal’s strength, he showed us that he cannot only do his songs but can also do other’s too. He infused bits of songs from Buju Banton, Gregory Isaacs, Cocoa Tea, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Romain Virgo and Lionel Richie with perfect ease.

Still on versatility, Busy did songs such as Dreams of Brighter Days without Righteous Child (RC) who also featured on the song, he also Did Shanty Town without Sugar Roy, he Did Bad Man Place without Mavado but no one noticed their absence, he delivered it so well and so craftily that I did not miss the others.

He however brought along Esco Levi with whom he delivered, perfect at that, the difficult to sing, Wicked Evil Man, again, versatile.

The posters should have included Esco Levi, it was not just one Jamaican star that performed. Esco gave the crowd a good time with a quick performance of Jah Nah Sleep also from theBrighter Days Riddim.

We got to see him in person, now we know he always has a hat on because he is fast getting bald, we know he is not bad man as he sometimes claims, and we know he is fast becoming a conscious reggae player and moving away from dancehall, his Reggae Music Again album being the indicator and its popularity probably his motivation.

My favorite part of Busy’s show was when he did a rendition of Bobby McFerrin’s Don’t Worry Be Happy. He reminded Malawians to stay positive even in hard times. He whistled catchy part into the mic and then pointed the mic at us to bellow out the ‘Don’t worry’ part. Classic.

The rest of the crowd were captivated by Dreams of Brighter Days, for obvious reasons and the ladies loved One More Night and Sweet Love. Th crowd really wanted Busy to do Praise and Worship, but he did not and this would be the only low I can write about.

I sang along so hard, I lost my voice inside an hour, I danced so much, I slept 11 hours straight after that but even then, I cannot match the effort Busy put into the show. And that Sunday morning will go into the memories of many people.

What is a festival without some insane randomness.  Social media went crazy today when some one leaked a photo of a naked girl who was at Lake of stars getting some enjoyable action from an unknown man at LOS on Lake Malawi.

We have the photo for you below:

Tension has risen in the old capital Zomba as a police officer on patrol shot dead a Malawi Defence (MDF) soldier of Cobbe Barracks Saturday night.

According to reports the incident occurred around 11 pm when the victim, who has been identified as Price Lameck, was coming from a beer drinking joint with his in-law and having reached the Zomba depot close a mosque, they met police who were on patrol.

It was while on their way home that they met they met patrolling police officers.

The deceased was then questioned by the police as to where he was coming from and he allegedly responded provocatively, saying he is a soldier and that the police could not question him where he was coming from.

MDF spokesman Lt Col. Francis Kakhuta-Banda confirmed that the shooting victim Lance-corporal Price Lameck from Pwandaphwanda village, TA Nkalo Chiradzulu was a soldier at Cobbe Barracks.

Currently details of the deceased are not ready as his next of kin has not been located and communicated to, he said.

To assert their authority on their duty, the police pursued him with force and a heavy struggle followed. The soldier was overpowering the police and further wanted to snatch a gun from one police officer, probably to prove his seniority, but the police officer had to, as per vow in the discipline, protect his gun.

“Though shall not lose the gun by any means” vow forced one of the police officers to shoot the soldier in the leg. Another bullet was, reportedly, delivered in the stomach before a deadly one was directed in the chest.

Before actually dying, the soldier crawled to a nearby tree and bled for an hour. His brother had, by this time, ran away. The police then abandoned the man and went on with their patrol duty.

In the wee hours of Sunday, some traders took the body to Zomba Central Hospital where it was announced dead.

Throughout Sunday, pressure had been mounting on the police as the soldiers at the Barracks were on the verge of taking the law into their hands to manhandle police officers who killed their colleague.

The incident happened barely hours after Malawi President, Peter Mutharika, instructed police officers to use any force “within the law” to curb crime.