Lake Ngosi

Nestled in the lush Uporoto Mountains in Mbeya, Lake Ngosi presents a breathtaking natural wonder that combines stunning scenery, rich history, and fascinating legends. The lake spans 2.5 kilometers in length, 1.5 kilometers in width, and reaches approximately 75 meters in depth, making it Africa’s second-largest crater lake, surpassed only by Lake Wenchi in Ethiopia. At an elevation of 2,600 meters above sea level on Ngosi Peak, a dense forest surrounds the lake, covering 9,332 hectares, making it a haven for nature and adventure seekers

The Origins of Lake Ngosi: Science and Legend

The Safwa word “Ligosi,” meaning “Big One,” gives Lake Ngosi its name, reflecting its impressive size. Scientific understanding and rich local legends explain the formation of Lake Ngosi

• Scientific Explanation:
  Geologists propose that a massive Plinian volcanic eruption formed Lake Ngosi around 12,000 years ago. The resulting crater gradually filled with water, creating the lake we see today
  
  
• Local Legends:
  
  
  • The Legend of Lwembe:
    The Nyakyusa people of Mbeya tell the story of a shaman named Lwembe. They banished Lwembe from his hometown of Ukwama due to his deceptive practices, and he took refuge near the lake. Soon after, cattle and people began disappearing in the area. In response, the Nyakyusa elders devised a plan to rid the lake of this mysterious force. They heated a large rock in a fire for three days before rolling it into the lake, believing it would expel the evil presence. Following this ritual, the disappearances ceased
    
    
  • The Hidden Treasure:
    Another captivating legend recounts German colonial soldiers who concealed a vast treasure within the lake’s depths. They placed a curse to protect their loot, possibly involving toxic gases (attributable to volcanic activity). Some versions of this story feature a 12-headed serpent guarding the treasure, emerging from the lake on sunny days. Whether this treasure exists remains a mystery, adding to the lake’s mystique. It is important to note the volcanic nature of the lake makes the existence of volcanic gasses highly possible

Cultural Significance and Management

Before the Tanzania Forestry Service assumed management, two Safwa clans, led by Chief Mlotwa Mwalingo and Chief Mlotwa Mwalupindi, traditionally oversaw Lake Ngosi. This highlights the lake’s deep cultural significance to the local communities