Chiefs and some other indigenous and local knowledge holders in the area of Traditional Authority Ngabu in Nsanje have called for inclusion in processes of formulating polices aimed at conserving biodiversity.
Their concerns were raised during a community sensitisation meeting under the National Outlook on Indigenous and Local Knowledge of Biodiversity Project. The initiative is being implemented by the Environmental Affairs Department (EAD) in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), with support from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund (KBF).
Speaking to MBC Digital, Chiefs Mbango and Kanyama expressed concern that local leaders are often sidelined in conservation processes, despite having protected the environment for generations through cultural heritage practices.
The project’s manager, Alice Kammwamba from LUANAR, stated that the project acknowledges the importance of cultural heritage in promoting biodiversity and environmental conservation.
She said that it realises that indigenous and local knowledge holders, such as chiefs and the elderly, possess millions of local knowledge and practices about their specific ecosystems.
“This is why LUANAR is creating a platform for dialogue between the local authorities and decision makers as part of enhancing policy advocacy,” said Kammwamba.
Chief Environmental Officer in the Environmental Affairs Department, Lilian Chimphepo, noted that it was encouraging to hear from chiefs expressing their desire to continue protecting the environment through their cultural heritages.
“Government is very keen to see to it that, at whatever cost, the environment is saved from depletion by utilising all means of conservation . The practices are not just important for the environment, but also for their cultural heritages and well-being of indigenous communities and the country at large”. Said Chimphepo.
By Chisomo Break
