As Malawi joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Rain Day, which falls on July 29 every year, Rainwater Harvesting Association of Malawi (RHAM), has launched a campaign dubbed “Harvest Rainwater Now” aimed at promoting the harvesting and management of rainwater using various channels.

The campaign, which will run until throughout this coming rainy season, will reach out to 1 million Malawians with various messages on the importance of harvesting rainwater.

Speaking to YFM online, RHAM chairperson, MacPherson Nthara, said his association will partner with governmental and non-governmental organisations, religious groups, and the media in the creation of a mass movement that will see water harvesting being embraced at all levels.

Nthara said: “This campaign will emphasize on the need for people to start valuing rainwater and make plans for rainwater collection and storage once the rainy season starts.”

He further said, throughout the campaign, RHAM will introduce various techniques for water storage around households or institutions like schools and hospitals.

Among other strategies and activities to be conducted during the campaign include school competitions and lectures, setting up demonstration centers, and field visits by the media.

Commenting on the commemoration of World Water Day, Nthara described it as important for Malawi as it gives room to seek for alternative means for augmenting water supplies.

The rain day has been celebrated since 1800’s in the United States of America before ended up spreading to all corners of the world in 1930’s.