Green Kwacha Initiative has expressed willingness to work with Nsanje District Council and local communities to strengthen efforts to protect Matandwe Forest Reserve and Mwabvi Game Reserve in the district.
The organisation’s director of operations Luke Kasamba said on Wednesday during a meeting with council officials and managers of the protected areas that they want to plant trees.
“The 30-year initiative will focus on tree-planting and conservation activities. In return, the council, communities and the country will benefit from carbon credits,” he said.
| Martin Gela jnr
Kasamba noted that many people turn to charcoal production due to lack of capital to engage in other businesses.
“Communities and individuals will plant trees on their land and get money to switch to other businesses such as beekeeping or bamboo planting,” he said.
Acting traditional authority Malemia welcomed the project, saying it could help mitigate floods and dry spells.
He cited plans to replenish trees along Nyamadzere, Mchekamalembo, Gandale, Chikunkha and Malindi rivers, which often flood during the rainy season.
Tengani Area Natural Resources Management Committee member Evance Alfred said the project is welcome because carbon credit payments will reduce illegal forestry activities.
“Most people engage in illegal forestry activities such as charcoal production because they do not have capital to support other businesses,” he said.
Nsanje district assistant forestry officer Alick Khwambala said the initiative is a major step toward addressing deforestation.
“The project aligns with Malawi 2063 and our District Development Plan, which focus on reforestation. We want the district to regain its green status,” he said.
