By Twink Jones Gadama
In a bold move to protect Malawi’s natural resources, the Nkhatabay District Council has stopped Traditional Authority (T/A) Thula from selling a portion of the Kaning’ina Forest Reserve to Shepherd Bushiri’s Goshen Trust.
The council’s decision comes after it was revealed that T/A Thula and his subordinates were attempting to sell off the land, which is designated as public property.
The council emphasized that the land belongs to the Kaning’ina forest reserve and, as such, cannot be sold by chiefs.
Designated as a forest reserve in 1935, the Kaning’ina Forest Reserve covers an area of 143.02 km² and is managed by the government.
The reserve is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems.
The council’s actions have been praised by environmentalists and local communities, who recognize the importance of preserving Malawi’s natural resources.
Deforestation and land degradation are significant concerns in Malawi, with Nkhata Bay losing 8.49 kha of natural forest in recent years.
The move to block the sale of the land is seen as a significant step towards protecting Malawi’s forests and promoting sustainable development.
The government has made efforts to conserve forest biodiversity, including initiatives to engage local communities in forest management.
The Nkhatabay District Council’s decision sets a precedent for protecting Malawi’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development. As the country continues to grapple with environmental challenges, bold actions like these are crucial for preserving its rich biodiversity.
 Thula from selling a portion of the Kaning’ina…){kind=link}