The Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change has emphasised the need for shared responsibility in protecting biodiversity and preserving the environment, as the country commemorated World Environment Day and International Biodiversity Day at Chongole Full Primary School, near Chia Lagoon in Nkhotakota.
Speaking at the event, line minister Owen Chomanika lauded the community’s efforts in environmental protection but also pointed out existing gaps that need urgent attention.
“We are inspired by what is happening here. There are best practices in place, but gaps still exist. That’s why we chose to commemorate this day here to shine a light on both the progress and the challenges,” said Chomanika.
The minister outlined the ecological importance of Chia Lagoon, which hosts over 18 bird species, some of which are almost extinct but have found sanctuary in the area. He added that the lagoon attracts migratory birds from around the world, making it not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a potential hub for eco-tourism.
“It is crucial that we preserve Chia Lagoon because it plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation and tourism. The birds here are important, and some come from across the globe to nest seasonally,” said Chomanika.
The Minister also applauded local youth and women who showcased creative environmental solutions such as recycling plastic into furniture and producing eco-friendly briquettes as alternatives to firewood.
“These displays are not just innovative; they are empowering. Women and young people are taking the lead, and it is our responsibility as a ministry to scale up these initiatives and preach environmental stewardship to everyone men, women, and the youth alike,” said Chomanika.
He also addressed the ongoing issue of thin plastic pollution, saying that despite the ban, remnants of the product remain in circulation.
“Yes, we banned thin plastics, but we still find them in shops. It’s not just about banning products it’s about behavioural change. Plastics harm our environment and endanger the sustainability of our development,” explained Chomanika.
The commemoration brought together key stakeholders, including district commissioners, traditional authorities, faith leaders, and development partners, all of whom were urged to continue championing sustainable environmental practices.
Also speaking at the event, Director General of the Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA), Wilfred Kadewa, expressed satisfaction with the community displays and youth-led environmental innovations.
“We are happy that important information on environmental protection has been shared. The recycling efforts by young people and women are commendable and show that the next generation is aware of the need to protect their future,” Kadewa said.
He pledged support to further promote these grassroots innovations through marketing, business profiling, and educational outreach, noting that stopping plastic pollution is achievable with collective action.
“It’s not just the responsibility of government bodies like MEPA or the Department of Environmental Affairs. Everyone has a role to play. We are all custodians of our environment,” he added.
Project Coordinator for the Chia Lagoon Waterbird Management Project under the Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi (WESM), Chifundo Dalireni, echoed similar sentiments. He said his organisation is working closely with the community to protect migratory waterbirds and reverse ecological degradation around the lagoon.
“In recent years, Chia faced degradation due to encroachment, particularly for rice farming. We are engaging the community to realise the benefits of conservation not only for biodiversity but also for tourism and livelihoods,” said Dalireni .
With support from UK-based BirdLife International and the Darwin Initiative, the project has established bird sanctuaries and raised awareness among locals. Dalireni noted that the number of bird species at Chia Lagoon has increased from 20 in 1994 to 33 today, thanks to community-driven conservation efforts.
“We’ve conducted monthly biodiversity monitoring, and the results are promising. Bird populations are recovering, and tourists are beginning to return. This shows that with commitment, we can restore and protect our ecosystems,” he concluded.
Activities commemorating the 2025 World Environment Day were held under the theme: Beat Plastic Pollution.
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