The company has since partnered members of the Machinga-Balaka Family Association to ably address deforestation in the two districts.

TNM annually undertakes tree planting exercises in line with one of its CSR policy pillars that strive to create sustainable environment.

And speaking in Balaka where the company planted 2000 tree seedlings, TNM Head of Region (South) Francis Mwamadi said the company is committed to addressing deforestation problems affecting the country through different initiatives.

“TNM as a Malawian company is passionate about creating environmental sustainability in Malawi by contributing towards reforestation that is why we are here today in Balaka which is one of the districts largely affected by deforestation,” Mwamadi said.

Mwamadi said the company realises the importance of trees in ecological system and pledged to support government in restoring and preserving forest.

“Balaka and Machinga are some of districts heavily hit by deforestation due to cutting down of trees for charcoal production. TNM as a Malawian brand we are very concerned hence our coming to help in bringing back the lost glory of our forest,” he said.

TNM is expected to undertake similar exercise in all regions across the country during this year’s tree planting season which was officially launched by Malawi’s President Arthur Peter Mutharika at area 25 in Lilongwe on January 25.

District Commissioner for Balaka Gift Mateauma hailed the company for channelling the initiative to the two districts.

“I am also encouraging each farmer to personally plant trees every year and am discouraging charcoal-making, which has destroyed trees in this area.

“As a Council, especially through the Department of Forestry, we have been encouraging communities to take care of trees. Because the area has few trees, I encourage them to plant trees which grow faster—such as cassia—for them to start reaping the benefits quickly,” he said.