BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights group under the banner Centre for Development and Economic Initiative (CDEDI) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Presscanne Limited, demanding it find a proper method for disposing of effluent discharge in Chikwawa District.

This follows an outcry from communities in Traditional Authority (T.A) Katunga, who complain that the company’s waste disposal sites are overflowing and producing a foul odor.

One community member, Stephano Munyonga, claims the situation over the past ten years has led to the spread of airborne diseases, corrosion of iron sheets, and the scorching of vegetation.

CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa made a surprise visit to the site, describing the situation as “unfortunate.”

He threatened to mobilize communities to hold vigils at the company’s premises if no lasting solution is found within the week.

However, Chikwawa District Council Environmental Officer Levious Mafuta acknowledged the issue, stating that discussions are underway among the concerned parties to find a permanent solution.

Earlier, Presscanne Limited authorities blocked CDEDI’s entry to the disposal site, citing a lack of prior notice. CDEDI complied but called the blockade “laughable,” arguing that such fact-finding missions do not require formal notice.

This comes barely days after CDEDI also pounced on Portland Cement company in Balaka on similar exercise.