Malawians Urged to Protect Newly-Planted Trees Amid Dry Spells
Youth climate advocate Malango Kaiyira also says young people should be involved in conservation efforts like tree planting.
LILONGWE, Malawi - Environmental activists are calling on Malawians to take proactive measures to protect newly planted trees as dry spells threaten the survival of saplings just weeks after the start of the country's tree planting season, writes Martha Nakhate Phonera.
Charles Bakolo, a climate change activist, has raised concerns that the dry conditions in parts of Malawi could affect trees planted after the season began on January 26.
He is advising prioritizing watering of new trees, mulching around them, and monitoring for signs of stress like wilting leaves.
Bakolo says there's a need for comprehensive community engagement, education and support.
This includes launching awareness campaigns about the importance of tree care and the benefits of healthy forests.
Youth climate advocate Malango Kaiyira also says young people should be involved in conservation efforts like tree planting.
But he notes they need to understand why it matters, since climate change impacts everyone.
The Forestry Department aimed to boost nationwide planting this season by providing two free saplings to each household and company.
However, weeks of dry spells and little rainfall in some areas now threaten the survival rate of newly planted trees.
Activists stress that proactive care of the young trees by communities will be key to ensuring the tree planting season succeeds despite the challenging conditions.
This means providing water, mulch and watchful monitoring to protect the country's newest trees.