Minister of Natural Resources, Patricia Wisikesi, says community engagement is crucial in forest conservation.
Wiskesi made the remarks on Wednesday after touring Namchidwa Forest Reserve in Mulanje District.
She said the government has stepped up efforts to curb deforestation in most forest reserves in the country.
“It is disheartening to see the high levels of deforestation in the Namchidwa Forest Reserve. We have noted that community surrounding this forest were in forefront in destroying this forest,” the minister said.
Wisikesi said government has now adopted a model where by the surrounding communities in forest reserves will champion conservation efforts.
District Commissioner for Mulanje, Chriss Nawata, said it is worrisome there is continued deforestation in protected areas.
Nawata said the council will strengthen systems to enhance protection of forest and forest products.
Senior Chief Njema said he will engage all Chiefs to come up with by laws so that they can protect the remaining trees in Namchidwa forest.
Namchidwa forest is over 2000 hectares but currently only 300 hectares has trees.
By Robert Nayeja, MANA
