Community Cleanups Promote Sustainable Tourism in Cape Maclear
Established in 2018, Sustainable Cape Maclear aims to enhance the quality of life in Cape Maclear through sustainable practices using local knowledge, skills and partnerships.
MANGOCHI, Malawi- To promote community tourism by improving the environment, Sustainable Cape Maclear, a community-based organisation in Mangochi district, has embarked on a waste management initiative through cleanup exercises and recycling, writes Maureen Kawerama.
Established in 2018, Sustainable Cape Maclear aims to enhance the quality of life in Cape Maclear through sustainable practices using local knowledge, skills and partnerships.
"Our vision is to make Lake Malawi National Park a premier destination where all people participate in conserving its value while benefiting equitably," said John Banana Matewere, team leader of Sustainable Cape Maclear.
"Cape Maclear is a tourist area so to make it sustainable, we collaborate to carry out cleanups, improve sanitation, increase local tourism involvement and start recycling and rubbish collection," Matewere said.
Yasuko Kusakari, a long-term researcher with the Establishment of a Sustainable Community Development Model project, said she is impressed with Sustainable Cape Maclear's efforts.
"For two and a half years here, I've seen cabbages reduce significantly from cleanups, contributing to a mindset change on waste," Kusakari said.
Area Development Committee Chair Mussa Saidi said continued collaboration is needed to keep Cape Maclear attractive and sustainable.