By Manasse Nyirenda

Rumphi, September 10, Mana: Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe of Rumphi has urged communities in the district to intensify their efforts in protecting forests to ensure the sustainability of natural resources in the district.

Chikulamayembe who is also Malawi 2063 Natural Resources Conservation Champion was speaking Monday at Bolero during the signing ceremony of forest management plans under Market Transition to Enable New Growth and Opportunities (Mtengo) Project.

The plans, which were developed, by Kango Forest Reserve and Kafinyengo Forest Reserve in with support from District Forestry Office will among others promote tree planting.

They also comprise forest protection by-laws with stiff penalties that have been prescribed against those who break the agreed laws.

He said people depend on nature for many things such as water, energy and others thereby putting too much pressure on natural resources, hence the need for them to implement the plans for effective forests’ conservation.

District Commissioner for Rumphi, Emmanuel Bulukutu said trees play an important role in sustaining water sources.

“If we destroy our forests, we will all suffer and the vice can also affect rain patterns which can lead to food insecurity, hence the need to protect our forests," said Bulukutu.

The chairperson for Kango Forest Reserve, Gomezgani Chavula said the plans will bring sanity to forestry management at the community level.

The project’s objectives, among others include promoting sustainable and scalable climate smart practices and technologies for improved food security.

The initiative is implemented through Total Landcare and Winrock International with funding from United States Department of Agriculture.