The row has been the subject of intense debate and concern for decades. Just this year, Tanzania has taken significant steps that have reignited tensions, including the construction of the Mbamba Bay Port on the disputed waters and the introduction of school maps depicting the border differently from Malawi's position.

Malawi, meanwhile, cites historical treaties, while Tanzania leans on international conventions, creating a stalemate that appears far from resolution.

Dr. George Chaima, an expert in government, public planning, and international policy in Malawi's capital of Lilongwe says the wrangle has affected the two neighbours’ relations significantly.

“I think it's really getting more and more contentious as the two countries are being antagonistic rather than are being, you know, neighbours that can see with each other eye to eye,” said Chaima.

“The dispute has been there for quite some time now. I think it dates back to the 18th to 19th century whereby the German as well as the British governments had to meet over it and see if they could come up with a solution to resolve the dispute, and mainly what we have seen is that this wrangle refuses to die, and it's been tabled several times for discussions in order to find solutions, but up to this very day we're talking about it, no solution has been seen,” Chaima said.

Malawi has cited historical treaties to lay claim to the entire lake, while Tanzania relies on international conventions to do the same.

Chaima says these countries continue to benefit economically from the lake, however, if the conflict continues, it may have a bad impact on both countries.

--ChannelAfrica--