Drivers and Pressures of Wetland Degradation in Malawi: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Wetlands in Malawi provide vital ecosystem services, yet they face increasing anthropogenic and environmental pressures that have resulted in their degradation. This review synthesizes findings from six studies focused on three major wetland ecosystems in Malawi—Lake Chilwa, Elephant Marsh, and the Kasungu floodplains—to identify and analyze the key drivers and pressures contributing to wetland degradation. The most prominent drivers identified include population growth, poverty, weak governance, upstream water abstraction, commercial agriculture, climate change and invasive alien species. These drivers result in direct pressures such as wetland encroachment for agriculture, settlement, resource overexploitation, and altered hydrology. The review highlights the interconnected nature of these drivers and underscores the need for integrated management approaches that address both immediate pressures and their underlying causes. Despite limitations in geographic scope and data availability, the findings offer critical insights for policy and practice aimed at sustaining Malawi’s wetland ecosystems. Further research is recommended, particularly in underrepresented regions and in relation to emerging threats such as invasive alien species, climate change and commercial land use expansion.