Natural Resources Minister Calls for Forest Conservation

Natural Resources and Climate Minister Patricia Wiskesi has called for increased efforts to conserve Malawi’s forests to address the growing effects of climate change, soil degradation, drought and floods.

Wiskesi made the call on Tuesday in Lilongwe when she presided over the launch of the Malawi Forestry Sector Turnaround Strategy 2026–2036, which aims to restore the country’s forests while promoting economic growth and climate resilience.

She said the strategy seeks to transform forestry from a sector focused mainly on conservation into a strategic national investment that can contribute to green industrialisation, employment creation, energy security and poverty reduction.

Wiskesi said Malawi’s forests are under increasing pressure from deforestation, forest degradation, charcoal production, agricultural expansion, illegal harvesting, forest fires and climate change.

She warned that failure to address these challenges could lead to declining water availability, loss of biodiversity, increased flooding and reduced livelihood opportunities.

“The strategy is built around eight pillars, including forest restoration and sustainable management, improved governance and law enforcement, community forestry and livelihoods, and commercial forestry and forest-based industries,” Wiskesi said.

She said the other pillars include green financing and carbon markets; forests, water security and climate resilience; institutional transformation; digital forestry and strategic partnerships; and resource mobilisation.

Wiskesi urged government institutions, communities, traditional leaders, the private sector, development partners, civil society organisations and academia to support the implementation of the strategy.

Meanwhile, Director of Landscape and Environment Allan Kuyanjana has welcomed the strategy, saying it will help local councils tackle deforestation resulting from human activities.

Kuyanjana said the strategy would also strengthen efforts by councils to protect and sustainably manage forest resources in their respective areas.