By Charlie Ligomeka

Machinga, January 22, Mana: The Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC) has warned people in Machinga to stop damaging the environment.

Speaking at a meeting on Wednesday at Puteya Primary School in Traditional Authority Chamba, CISONECC National Coordinator Julius Ng'oma said people must work together to protect the environment they are living in.

Ng'oma warned that environmental degradation, poaching, and climate change pose significant threats to Malawi's ecosystem and livelihoods.

"The future of our planet is in our hands and we must act now to protect our environment, or risk facing catastrophic consequences. We need community members to take ownership of protecting the forests, lakes, and wildlife," Ng'oma said.

Forest Officer responsible for prosecution at the Department of Forestry, John Kabiya echoed Ng'oma's sentiments, stressing that conserving the forest is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and sustaining wildlife.

Kabiya advised community members to obtain certification before cutting down trees or collecting forest products, citing the devastating impact of charcoal burning and deforestation on the environment.

"The forest is not just a collection of trees; it's rather a delicate ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal species. We must protect it at all costs," he said.

Kambiya also warned that the forest department has taken a stern action against those found violating forest regulations.

"We will continue to crack down on environmental crimes, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.  In the year 2024, we have made 736 arrests and secured over 650 convictions," he revealed.

Kabiya singled out charcoal burning as one of the biggest challenges facing the forestry sector, citing Neno and Mwanza as districts notorious for the practice.

Group Village Headman Nsiyama welcomed the engagement meeting on environmental management, saying it would transform the area into a better place to live.

"We thank CISONECC for helping us open our eyes to the importance of environmental conservation. This meeting has empowered us to take action, to become guardians of our environment, and to ensure a brighter future for generations to come," said Nsiyama.

The meeting, attended by community members, traditional leaders, and government officials from Machinga District Council was organized by CISONECC with funding from the Scottish Government, through the Climate Justice Fund.