A five Kilometers away from Liwonde- Nsamana road to Malape Pillars located at Chindenga Village in the area of Traditional Authority Nsanama In Machinga district has been an attraction site to a group of hickers, Faith groups,artist and business people interested in tourism related investments.

The pillars perched at the base of Chikala hills are striking sandstone formation shaped by years of erosion and gullying, truly one and beautiful geological wonders in Machinga district.

The Council’s officials led by the District Commissioner Rodrick Mateauma, toured the site to explore ways of promoting it to become a tourist attraction site while preserving its natural beauty.

Mateama says the tour to the Malape hills is a kick off for the council’s to turn the site into a sustainable tourism hub that feeds both the local community and the district’s revenue.

“We are appealing to non-governmental organizations, private companies and well-wishers to pump in money for the project which will help in generating income from both international and locals, the pillars have been attracting visitors but nothing generated for the council as many tourists do not contribute financially” he said.  

He added that the Council will engage the village committee, the folks who already run the day to day care for the pillars and map out the joint plan to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.

“We want to inspire the local committees to turn Malape into a genuine tourist’s destination, one that protects nature as well as generate cash for both the community and the district at large” he said.

Chairperson for the Malape Pillars Management Committee praised the District Commissioner and his team for the site visit noting that the tour showed the council’s genuine commitment to unlocking the areas full tourism potential.

He appreciated the DC and his team for visiting the pillars and looking forward to work hand in hand with the council and other organizations.

“We consider this place our pride and we would like to preserve it for meaningful tourism and for future generations to appreciate the wonders of the nature” he added

He however expressed frustration with unfulfilled promises made by some individual groups who had previously pledged to help develop the site but nothing tangible up to date.

“We have heard many promises, but the site still lacks the basic support it needs” he said

He then called individuals, companies and organization of good will to assist in erecting a wire fence to prevent encroachment and protect the site from the damage.