By Patience Harawa

Karonga, February 15, Mana: Community Energy Malawi (CEM) has planted 5,000 trees in Group Village Head (GVH) Walamba in Karonga district, a development which aims at promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing deforestation,

Speaking during the tree planting exercise on Friday at Gumi in the area of Senior Chief Mwirang'ombe, CEM Country Director Edgar Kabiza Bayani said the organization is committed to promote clean energy and sustainable development in Malawi.

Bayani said; "The tree-planting exercise is part of the initiatives to support Nkhongono Kuwanthu Cooperative which works with Community Energy Malawi to reduce its over-reliance on firewood and adopt sustainable energy practices as the cooperative runs its bakery business.

“We believe that by working together with local communities and organization, we can make a significant impact and create a better future for ourselves and future generations."

The country director said besides the tree planting exercise, his organization will also provide a solar-powered oven to Nkhongono Kuwanthu Cooperative which would help reduce cases of deforestation in search of firewood.

“This initiative will not only promote sustainable energy practices but also help reduce deforestation and careless cutting down of trees,” he explained.

In his remarks, Chairperson for Karonga District Council Councillor Belliam Msukwa commended Community Energy Malawi for their tree planting initiative in Malawi, citing its importance in addressing deforestation and climate change.

“I am so pleased with the efforts the organization is making in restoring our environment. The 5000 trees we are planting today will go a long way in restoring our environment and promoting sustainable development in the district,” Msukwa said.

Echoing the Chairperson's sentiments, Secretary for Nkhongono Kuwanthu Harriet Mwenendeka expressed her heartfelt gratitude to CEM for providing the trees to the cooperative; a gesture she said will have a profound impact on the community’s environment and livelihood.

“We are extremely thankful to Community Energy Malawi for the 5,000 trees they have provided to us. The trees will greatly benefit our cooperative, providing us with a sustainable source of energy and reducing our reliance on firewood," Mwenendekha said.