Minister impressed with TLC, Raiply

Minister of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining Bright Msaka says he is impressed with efforts by Total Land Care (TLC) and Raiply Malawi Limited to embark in sustainable harvesting of their concession areas in Viphya Plantation in Mzimba.

Speaking during a fact- finding tour of the plantation on Tuesday, Msaka said it was impressive to note that other concessionaires are doing their best in managing the forest.

“TLC and Raiply are giving us a positive story on how they are managing their concessions,” he said.

Msaka said it was sad to note that some Malawians have failed to manage their concession areas by harvesting trees without replanting them.

“We have behaved in a way like a prodigal son, very keen and ready to squander their inheritance. We should be very careful and proud of what we have inherited and pass the benefits to the next generation,” said the minister.

TLC afforestation manager Paulos Mwale said the organisation has replanted 1 000 hectares and remain with only 100 hectares to plant next year.

However, Raiply Malawi Limited chief executive officer Thomas Oomen said the company is facing a challenge with encroachers who are illegally cutting down trees from its concession area.

TLC is managing a concession of 2 600 hectares while Raiply is managing 20 000 hectares. n