Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP), a project implemented with funds from the World Bank and Social Protection Multi Donor Trust Fund is turning the tide on land degradation and bringing hope to communities in Likoma District.
Joseph Mseka, a participant and resident of Chizumulu, has seen the impacts first-hand.
“Before introducing this programme, we experienced higher water flows into the lake which created soil erosion and a lot of gullies, as a result, we were not able to plant vegetables not even fruits here in Chizumulu,” said Mseka.
He said the implementation of CS-EPWP has birthed many projects on the island, such as stone bands and planting of vetiver grass. The trees have helped retain soil, enabling the community to plant cassava, vegetables, and fruits such as bananas.
Another participant from Likoma Island Edna Kalande has felt the programme’s impact. For her, the knowledge gained has been worthwhile.
“All along we have been experiencing soil erosion and some houses were damaged due to the impact, but now the soil has been returned due to the interventions being put in place such as the stone bunds,” said Kalande.
Recently, the District Commissioner (DC) for Likoma Abubaker Nkhoma, Member of Parliament (MP) for Likoma Ashems Songwe, Likoma ward Councilor Ernest Gulu and some Council Officials visited the district to see the programme’s progress.
By Ireen Mseteka, MANA
