The Export Development Fund (EDF) has embarked on an initiative to rehabilitate places adversely impacted by mining operations.
EDF said the extraction of minerals, including gold and other valuable gemstones, may lead to significant environmental degradation if not redressed.
During a community meeting at Bowa Village in Traditional Authority Kanyenda, Nkhotakota, EDF’s Chief Finance Officer, Mofat Msukwa, highlighted the critical state of these areas. Msukwa emphasised the urgency of ecological restoration efforts.
“Environmental degradation is partly an unfortunate consequence of mineral extraction. Yet, we are committed to reversing this trend by re-establishing the vegetative cover and mitigating further ecological damage.
“Tree planting is a viable solution and with the support of the local community where we also source gold, we aim to plant up to 5,000 trees. Our partnership with the Wildlife Environmental Society of Malawi (WESM) reinforces our belief in the feasibility of this endeavor,” said Msukwa.
Yasin Malandula, WESM’s Branch Manager for Nkhotakota, addressed the importance of not only planting trees but also ensuring their survival.
“Following the recent floods that devastated Nkhotakota, it’s imperative to extend EDF’s restoration efforts to all affected regions. We’ve established a collaborative mechanism with the local community to foster a sense of stewardship, ensuring the longevity of the newly planted trees. WESM is committed to ongoing monitoring and providing expert guidance on tree management,” explained Malandula.
Village Head Bowa expressed gratitude towards EDF for their consideration of his community, “The repercussions of climate change are evident. It’s crucial that we participate in initiatives aimed at restoring our environment.”
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera inaugurated the National Forestry Season on 18 January 2024 at Mpasa Hill in Phalombe District. This season, the nation set a goal to plant 34 million trees, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental conservation.
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