By Pickson Chipeso

Lilongwe, December 23 Mana; Farming Access for Rural Markets Smallholders and Enterprises (FARMSE), in conjunction with Opportunity International Malawi, launched a tree-planting initiative at Nsinja.

Speaking at the event in Traditional Authority Masula, in Lilongwe, on Monday, Opportunity International Malawi's Project Coordinator, Vitumbiko Lungu Moyo, emphasized the importance of environment-friendly practices.

"We plant trees based on environmental climate training conducted with Community-Based Financial Institutions (CBF) in Nsinja.

 "We encourage tree planting at both community and national levels, as well as promote environmentally friendly businesses among CBF, also known as village banks," she said.

Moyo noted that Nsinja's proximity to Dzalanyama Forest,as a charcoal-producing area, presents an opportunity for sustainable practices.

She said they are encouraging village banks to adopt businesses that benefit the climate and environment.

According to FARMSE District Project Coordinator, Brown Phulusa, this is a positive event, especially considering the rampant deforestation and it offers an opportunity to demonstrate the importance of tree planting and environmental conservation.

Phulusa emphasized that participants, including CBF members, will take part in planting one or two trees and learn how to care for them from forestry experts. By doing so, they will understand the value of tree planting and become ambassadors for environmental conservation.

He stressed that climate change is a pressing issue, citing frequent droughts, floods, and dry spells as evidence.

"Tree planting helps mitigate the effects of climate change and slows it down. Trees act as a buffer zone, absorbing carbon dioxide and reducing greenhouse gases. They also facilitate rainwater infiltration, reducing surface runoff during heavy rainfall," he said.

Phulusa concluded that events like this are crucial in promoting environmental awareness and encouraging communities to take action against climate change.

The councillor for Nsinja ward has expressed gratitude to FARMSE and Opportunity International Malawi for organizing a tree-planting event, highlighting the importance of restoring damaged natural resources in Nsinja and across Malawi. He emphasized that tree planting is the key to reviving these resources.

This event follows the launch of the National Tree Planting initiative in Mzuzu by Vice President Dr. Michael Usi, which aims to promote reforestation and environmental conservation from December 15, 2024, to April 17, 2025. The councillor's remarks underscore the critical role that tree planting plays in mitigating the effects of climate change and preserving Malawi's natural heritage.