Lake Kazuni, an incredible lake which is located on the edge of Vwaza Marsh game reserve in Mzimba District has the potential to make a splash in the tourism industry.
The Lake, which was created thousands of years ago, sits at an elevation of approximately 1076 meters above sea level and covers an area of about 4 square kilometres, with a length of nearly 8 kilometres and a width ranging from 400 to 500 metres.
A renowned tourist enthusiast Colby Mughogho has said Lake Kazuni is one of the country’s popular tourist destinations, offering a rare chance to observe a diverse range of significant population of Hippos, Elephants, and Crocodiles in their natural environment, making it an excellent destination for a wide range of travellers.
Mughogho has told ProjectM that the beautiful lake is also a spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, making it an ideal place for photography lovers.
He has stated that: “The interesting part of this lake is that visitors can take a safari boat ride to enjoy breathtaking scenery and memorable wildlife encounter.
“It is also a favourite for tourists, encourages longer stays and more activities around the lake. As we honour tourism in Malawi and globally, we must travel responsibly by preserving our cultural heritage, engaging local cuisine and participating in adventure activities.”
The tourism enthusiast emphasised that infrastructure development around the lake is necessary to promote sustainable tourism and enhance the country’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
He said there is a need to invest in eco-tourism projects like eco-lodges, campsites and trail marking facilities at Vwaza, saying this initiative can raise awareness about the critical importance of Lake Kazuni and in the process attracting both local and international visitors to boost the local economy.
He has also said that marketing is essential to effectively promote the beautiful landscape of this trail because despite its proven benefits, Lake Kazuni remains underappreciated and underutilised.
“In today’s digital landscape, impactful marketing strategies are very essential as they do not only drive significant revenue growth but also promote strong brand loyalty and enhance brand reputation,” he said.
Charles Mphande, a farmer from Ekwendeni, echoed Mughogho’s sentiments saying if Malawi wants to witness a boom in domestic tourism, more needs to be done stating this is a vital step forward to promote the future of our tourism industry.
“We are advocating for the establishment of a cultural centre around the area, aimed at preserving and promoting Malawi’s heritage for future generations. Through innovative programmes and partnerships, we aim to ensure long-term growth and vitality of the tourism sector,” he said.
With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty Lake Kazuni is a must-visit site for anyone looking to experience its natural beauty and as such, there is a need for Malawians to join hands in promoting domestic travel, showcase the country’s tourism offerings, and highlight the sector’s significant contribution to the economy.