The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) engaged fishermen, the Fisheries department, irrigation farmers, law enforcers, the Agricultural department and Fuel Service Station operators in Nkhata Bay to take proactive measures to curb malpractice in fuel purchases.

MERA held the meeting after registering an increase in complaints from registered fishermen and farmers in Nkhata Bay that they were facing challenges to access fuel. MERA Northern Region Manager Micheal Mwase assured farmers and fishermen that Chintheche Mount Meru, Nkhata Bay Engen and Nkhata Bay Total were authorized to serve their fuel needs in the district. Mr. Mwase made the remarks on Wednesday 26 November 2025 during an engagement meeting at Chintheche in Nkhata Bay, emphasizing the need for fishermen and irrigation farmers to present valid documents from their respective authorities and MERA when buying fuel.

 

MERA Consumer Affairs Officer Mr. Vitumbiko Sakala also highlighted the need for proper coordination between the Fisheries department, the Agricultural department, registered fishermen, irrigation farmers and Fuel Service Stations in the district. He further urged that all consumers have right to access fuel and advised them to report the malpractices and poor handling of consumers at Fuel Service Stations to MERA.

 

The Extension Fisheries Officer at Chintheche Minor Stratum, Godfrey Moyo, said he was confident that fishermen will now purchase fuel without giving bribes to attendants. He also urged fishermen to use original licenses issued by their department when buying fuel and not to lend them to vendors.

Boston Ulaya, Nkhata Bay Total Fuel Station representative, said the meeting was important for managing fuel sales and urged a joint effort to fight the malpractice in the district.