Malawi, like many other developing countries, faces several challenges when it comes to sustainability. With a growing population and limited resources, it is crucial that the country implements sustainable programs and initiatives to protect its environment and natural resources for future generations.
- One of the key sustainability needs in Malawi is the conservation of its forests. Deforestation has been a major problem in the country for many years, with much of the timber being used for fuel and building materials. This has had a devastating impact on the environment, leading to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
To address this issue, the Malawi Project, now functioning through its sister organization Action for Progress, has worked jointly with the government and local villages to plant more than 500,000 tree seedlings beginning in 2005. This was done through the Shoes for Trees program.
- Another important area of focus for sustainability in Malawi is agriculture. Most of the country’s population is involved in subsistence farming, and traditional farming practices often lead to soil degradation and loss of productivity.
To address this issue, the Malawi Project through Action for Progress has instituted programs called Joseph Projects. From five sites these have created large numbers of village co-ops built around ag training, farm subsidies, loans, and large community warehouse for the safe storage of grain. Drip irrigation has been extensively used to conserve water resources and increase farm production, as well as initiatives for Fish farms are currently in the planning stage as a way of bringing a healthy lifestyle to the lives of the people.
- Water scarcity is also a major issue in Malawi, particularly in rural areas where access to clean water is limited.
To address this issue, the Malawi Project with Action for Progress has initiated the creation of a large reservoir in the central part of Malawi, and current plans call for a second one south of the capital. Drilling water wells, primarily in the central region of Malawi, has brought much needed assistance to several village areas. The capture and storage of rainwater coming down from metal roofs has also been tested for its potential value in retaining water during the intense rainy season.
Overall, sustainability is a critical issue for Malawi, and there is a growing recognition of the need for sustainable programs and initiatives to protect the country’s environment and natural resources.