By Agatha Namphimba

Department of National Parks and Wildlife has raised concerns over low patronage of tourists in the country’s national parks and game reserves this year.

Speaking with YFM Director of the department of National Parks and Wildlife Brighton Kumchedwa said more people have not been visiting the protected areas due to political instability in the country.

“This year has been bit challenges from May 21 there have been sets of violence happening in the country which had some consequences on tourists making decisions to come to our protected areas.”

Kumchedwa further said due to the current political tension the department has also suspended its initiative of giving out licenses to community members to possess animal skins.

“As of now there is lawlessness with people so when we thought of cancelling the activity and we are waiting for the country to be stable again,” he said.

Malawi is blessed with five huge national parks namely Kasungu, Liwonde, Lengwe, Lake Malawi and Nyika.

Malawi also boosts of four huge game and wildlife reserves namely Nkhotakota, Majete, Mwabvi and Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve.