On The Frontline

Readers’ Dzalanyama response

This week, I want to share views expressed by  some of my passionate readers on the Dzalanyama topic I tackled last week. I will, therefore, dedicate this page to debates on Dzalanyama. I welcome constructive ideas on how best we can move government to take an urgent action to save Dzalanyama. If you have ideas, please share and I will publish.
Please, see what other front liners have shared on Dzalanyama.

Dear Ephraim,
I have noted your concern about the destruction of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve. You sound very patriotic indeed, but almost like a lone voice. Fortunately, I heard an MP voicing the concern. Unfortunately, we seem to be clueless as a nation on a lasting solution. I personally feel there is need for drastic action that will include making the place a no-go area for these destructive people. Human rights should in this matter be viewed from the point of view of entitlements (e.g right to water) for larger public than a few destructive individuals shamelessly claiming they do that because of poverty. I am optimistic that destruction can be stopped if the will matches the action. Please do not get tired of writing. Action is indeed required yesterday.
C. Manda

Mr Nyondo,
This was a brilliant suggestion and I fully support it. In fact, why did we not collectively think about it and implement it years ago. We are not serious. Let’s hope this time around, authorities will listen to this SOS (save our souls) call to save Dzalanyama and eventually the City of Lilongwe. From my understanding of your articles, Dzalanyama Forest Reserve and Lilongwe River are the lifeblood of our capital city. Whereas the city is named after the river, not much prominence has been given to Dzalanyama. No major road, building, square or structure is named after this source of life for the city. Hey, may we should re-name Kamuzu Palace Dzalanyama!
Enock Kaunda, Lilongwe

What role does the department of forestry play here? It looks simple, but time will come when people will totally call it too late to serve Jerusalem.
Charles P.Y Gama

I have explored a way that can sustainably protect our forests and to financially empower communities. I am yet to discuss this with relevant authorities. The other day I sat down with few members of Parliament and I presented the idea, they all gave a nod. It is a working programme and if it can be implemented Malawi can be another better place.
Yona Banda.

The answer to the Dzalanyama predicament is adopting a co-management approach and introduing a livelihood programme for people living close to the the forest reserve.  We have  seen what has happened in Zomba, Malosa, where though deforestation has not gone down,people are benefiting from irrigation farming and they can easily make a link between water and a well-protected forest. So as a massive awareness campaign starts, which should involve chiefs and civil society in the area a confiscation campaign should also started. Charcoal can be made sustainably!
Samuel

What is the Forestry Department doing? Again, it is very silent. What are our leaders doing?
Ernest

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