Because of this there is no estimation of the current population size available, but is believed to be low due to its restricted range and little number of individuals being found.

Threats of the species include urban development, agriculture, dams, modifications to the ecosystem, pollution, and droughts.

The river faces similar threats to the Sianda stream, which was also canalised, likely to aid in agricultural drainage.

The area around its range is increasing in human population, leading to an intensification of agriculture, water usage, and well as deforestation in nearby woodlands bordering dambos.

No invasive fish currently occur in the species range, although the Nile tilapia is considered to be a major threat, likely to invade the area from the Zambezi River.