Chitipa, Karonga Districts Set to Plant 2.8 Million Trees Despite Challenges
The tree planting campaign not only helps in environmental conservation but also in the economic development and livelihoods of local communities.
Malawi: Chitipa and Karonga districts, located in the northern region of Malawi, have set targets of planting 1.3 million and 1.5 million trees, respectively, writes Victor Musongole.
Sitwel Banda, Chitipa district forestry officer, said, said, said, "We planted 1.2 million last season but only 58 per cent survived. Uncontrolled bushfires remain a big problem here, and livestock is also destroying some."
Despite this, the district is still determined to reach its target of planting 1.3 million trees this season.
Kingston Tembo, Karonga district assistant forestry officer, said that charcoal production and deforestation caused by the extraction of indigenous timber are major challenges in the district.
"Charcoal production is a major challenge here, especially in border areas, because most charcoal produced in some areas is exported to Tanzania where the government is also using tough laws on charcoal. The other challenge is the booming timber production from indigenous trees, and with the coming of these chainsaws, it is worse," Tembo said.
Despite these challenges, both districts are determined to reach their tree-planting targets and contribute to the national goal of 50 million trees.
The districts will work to mitigate the negative effects of bushfires and charcoal production, as well as encourage sustainable forestry practices in the communities.
The tree planting campaign not only helps in environmental conservation but also in the economic development and livelihoods of local communities.
President Lazarus Chakwera launched a national campaign to plant 50 million trees last month in Mangochi, to increase forest cover and promote sustainable development.