By Chisomo Sezi
The Groundbreaking Initiative says is set to transform the landscape for smallholder farmers and local communities, enhancing their resilience to climate shocks while improving livelihoods and food security.
We will enhance farmers resilience to climate shocks-Thawe PIC Chisomo Sezi
This was announced on Friday, during a stakeholders' engagement meeting at Sandton Hall in Mzimba District.
Program Manager for Restore Africa under Total Land Care, Patrick Thawe, emphasized that the project aims to tackle land degradation, boost food security, and uplift the local economy.
"Through this project, we aim to plant 7.5 million trees, with 30% coming from farmer-managed natural regeneration.
"Our focus is on 10 Traditional Authorities in Mzimba, targeting areas severely affected by soil erosion and deforestation,” said Thawe.
Thawe noted that greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, are major contributors to climate instability. By planting trees that can sequester carbon, the project hopes to reduce atmospheric carbon levels and restore ecological balance.
Inkosi Jalavikuba Munthali, stressed t the urgency of reforestation efforts, noting that deforestation is a historical issue that has escalated due to population growth.
"We must educate our communities about the importance of reforestation to reverse this trend. The collaboration with Restore Africa includes establishing nurseries, allowing communities to plant trees as soon as the rains begin.
"By harvesting carbon credits, we can create income opportunities for our community members," added Jalavikuba.
Senior Forest Officer, Masozi Shaba, highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between local authorities and Restore Africa.
"The community is actively engaged in tree planting and promoting natural regeneration, but we need more awareness about sustainable agricultural practices," she said.
She further noted that in Mzimba, agricultural practices like millet farming have contributed to significant tree loss, worsening environmental degradation.
Masozi called for the adoption of techniques that balance agricultural needs with conservation efforts.
The project is part of a broader initiative across six African countries, including Malawi, and is scheduled to conclude in 2027.
Funded by Climate Management Asset (CAM) through the Global Evergreen Alliance (GEA), the organization will restore 75,069 hectares of degraded land by planting 7,541,828 trees.
yoThis initiative will benefit 68,562 households, with a budget of USD 2.4 million.
Comments