FORESTRY SEASON 23/24 - Nsumbi VNRC commits to enhancing landscape greenery
Nsumbi VNRC has raised an assortment of tree seedlings that includes Faidherbia albida (msangu), Acacia gappini (Kesha), papayas, lemons, mangoes, among others in readiness for the forestry season
MONKEY-BAY, Mangochi (Planet Defence) - In line with the national landscape restoration plan, members of the Nsumbi Village Natural Resources Committee (VNRC) in the area of Traditional Authority Namkumba, Monkey-Bay, Mangochi, have significantly enhanced their management of tree nurseries writes Elija Katantha in Mangochi.
This year, utilizing their own resources, the committee procured polythene tubes and planted a total of 1,000 tree seeds comprising various species. Out of these, 834 seedlings successfully germinated and have thrived. The assortment of trees includes Faidherbia albida (msangu), Acacia gappini (Kesha), papayas, lemons and mangoes, among others.
During a recent inspection of the tree nursery, Cecilia Milanzie, chairperson of the committee, emphasized their commitment to raising and planting tree seedlings each tree planting season.
Milanzie stated, "Our committee planted a total of 1,500 trees in the previous planting season." She added that these trees were planted within the premises of Masasa Primary School, while some were also dedicated to the Dzimwe Community Radio Station, aiding in the dissemination of environmental conservation messages.
Milanzie also added that tree planting in catchment and watershed areas is also a move towards fisheries resources conservation in the Lake.
This year, the committee aims to generate income by selling some of the trees. Furthermore, they plan to allocate certain trees to Masasa Primary School and distribute seedlings to families in the area.
Notably, the committee secured the second position in the 2022/2023 Performance Awards, sponsored by Ripple Africa under the Fish Conservation Project funded by UNESCO.
Established under the Department of National Parks and Wildlife via the Lake Malawi National Park office, the committee operates to safeguard both terrestrial and aquatic resources.