By Sheminah Nkhoma

Lilongwe, March 19, Mana: Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change, Dr Owen Chomanika, has urged civil society organisation (CSOs) to take critical actions in environmental management as  they are key players in the natural resources management and other environmental issues in the country.

Speaking during a CSO engagement session in Lilongwe on Wednesday, Chomanika said partnering with CSOs will help address the pressing challenges facing in environment, natural resources and climate change.

“We are all witnesses to the devastating impacts of climate change on our nation. From persistent droughts to severe floods and cyclones like Ana and Jude; these events have caused immense suffering in our communities and CSOs have been at the forefront to respond to these crises.

“Your ability to connect with local communities makes you invaluable in implementing solutions that are both inclusive and effective,” he said

Chomanika stated that there is need for strong partnerships with CSOs to amplify the efforts from the grassroots level  to ensure the environment is protected.

“It is high time as a country we change on how we deal with issues concerning fisheries, forest and other  natural resource management whether it is through community education campaigns, policy advocacy or direct project implementation,” he said.

Executive Director for Coordination Union for Rehabilitation of the Environment (CURE), Charles Mkoka, said they are many challenges that have affected the environment like ecosystem degradation and forest degradation so coming together will help to find long term solutions.

“It is not the duty of government alone to protect the environment but CSOs also have a role to play in management of the environment,” said Mkoka.

The session aimed  at building a sustainable future for Malawi by leveraging the unique strengths and contributions of CSOs.