The Area 3 Hiking Team of Lilongwe, in partnership with renowned environmental activist Matthews Malata, donated 350 fruit trees and food hampers to Mwenda Village in Lilongwe.
The initiative aligns with the Malawi government’s ongoing efforts to encourage citizens to plant trees and combat deforestation.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Malata emphasized the importance of environmental conservation and the role communities play in protecting their surroundings.
He noted that the team, which regularly hikes Bunda Mountain located in Mwenda Village, decided to give back to the community in a way that promotes sustainability and food security.
“The fruit trees we are donating will not only help restore the environment but also provide a source of food and income for the villagers. Our collaboration with the Area 3 Hiking Team stems from a shared commitment to preserving nature for future generations,” said Malata.
Group Village Headman Mponda expressed gratitude to the hiking team and Malata for their generosity. He acknowledged that Mwenda Village has faced challenges with tree cutting, which has contributed to environmental degradation in the area.
“The trees will restore the natural beauty of our village and combating the effects of deforestation. I will personally ensure that the community takes proper care of the trees to maximize their benefits,” he said.
The government has been actively advocating for tree-planting campaigns across the country to address issues of deforestation and climate change.
The donation by the Area 3 Hiking Team and Malata serves as an example of how private citizens and groups can support these national efforts.
As Malawi continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, initiatives like these highlight the importance of community-driven approaches to environmental conservation.
