The Department of Forestry in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has engaged chiefs and faith leaders for Mangochi and Ntcheu districts to shape public behaviour and intensify community awareness on natural resource management.
Speaking during the establishment of the Chiefs and Faith Leaders Forum on natural resource management for Mangochi and Ntcheu districts in Mangochi on Thursday, Deputy Director of Forestry, Ted Kamoto, said by anchoring natural resource management in traditional and faith structures, government aims to build a culture of accountability and shared responsibility.
Kamoto said they are equipping local leaders with knowledge on forestry protection, sustainable fishing practices, water catchment conservation, as well as climate resilience, in order to enhance governance and community awareness.
“We targeted the faith community as well as traditional leaders because they interface with communities on various developmental aspects. We feel that their involvement in management of natural resources will help restore Malawi for improved food security and increased climate resilience,” he said.
Over 40 leaders attended the event which was organised with support from the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative.
In his remarks, Senior Chief Nankumba of Mangochi commended government for the initiative, saying it has provided a platform for chiefs and faith leaders to discuss matters of the environment.
“This forum is a useful tool for us as community leaders because we will be able to discuss issues that are hindering our efforts in the fight against climate change and be able to provide common solutions,” said Nankumba.
