Group Village Headman Chisangwi of Dedza District has described the interventions under the ongoing Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works programme as transformative for both environmental conservation and poverty reduction.
Chisangwi shared these sentiments after journalists visited the Kakolo Catchment area to observe the environmental conservation efforts.
“In the past, we faced many challenges such as soil erosion, water runoff, and gullies that affected crop production, as some gardens experienced flooding,” he said.
Jabulani Madise, the Agriculture Extension Development Coordinator for the Kaphuka Area, noted that the programme has engaged 1,384 farming households and covers 3,767 hectares of farming land in the catchment area.
“Some current challenges include absenteeism among participants due to funerals and a lack of working equipment such as wheelbarrows and slashers,” he observed.
Environmental activist Maloto Chimkombero lauded the environmental conservation efforts and their role in mitigating climate change.
“The initiatives in Dedza are commendable, empowering the community to actively participate in conserving the environment. I appeal to the World Bank and the government to continue supporting this programme as it has great potential to reduce charcoal burning in forests,” Chimkombero said.
The Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works programme is a World Bank-funded social support initiative aimed at building resilience, implemented by the National Local Government Finance Committee.
