Likoma Schools Engage Students in Reforestation
The district aims to plant 50,000 trees this year amid concerns over widespread cutting of young trees for fish drying and other uses.
LIKOMA, Malawi- Environmental authorities in Malawi's Likoma Island district are promoting youth involvement in combating deforestation, writes Oliver Malibisa.
Local schools are being urged to engage students in tree planting activities. District Forestry Officer Grant Kumwenda spoke at Friday's launch of this year's tree planting season at Chima Primary School.
The district aims to plant 50,000 trees this year amid concerns over widespread cutting of young trees for fish drying and other uses.
"Children are the future leaders and the best time to start taking up responsibilities of taking care of the environment is now," Kumwenda said.
Chima Primary represented other schools at the launch, themed "Forest Innovation In Action, Restoration for a Sustainable Tomorrow."
Standard 7 student Chisomo Nkhungulu said participating in the launch was an honor for young people at a formative learning stage. In addition to planting trees, it will help them remember environmental lessons, she said.
Teacher Cameron Mphande said his school will encourage learners to help with reforestation.
"The Island district is passing through a serious deforestation period," he noted.
This year the district forestry office has partnered with the Likoma Conservation Foundation, which distributes free seedlings across Likoma.