Conserving nature for the next generations

Zomba is one of the few places in Malawi that still offers a unique biodiversity, comprising trees, rivers, mammals, birdlife, fruits and vegetables. It offers economic opportunities to farmers, but also in tourism. However, this vital ecosystem is at high risk of rapidly disappearing due to extensive deforestation, river pollution, soil erosion and vagrant waste. 

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Deforestation is a major catalyst. The use of wood fuels comprises about 80,5% of the total energy consumption in Zomba. This places unsustainable demand on the Zomba forest. Most deforestation takes place fairly out of sight on the plateau. But the daily transport of firewood via town roads and the disappearance of trees and bushes even in town areas show a clear picture of the rapid loss of forestry all around town. 

Without effective solutions, this destruction of ecosystems poses a direct threat to the livelihoods of the Zomba population. During the last rainy seasons, Zomba already experienced floods, mud and rock shifts and loss of crops.

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Those to suffer most, are the youth, who in just a few years’ time will find their energy sources depleted, their agriculture plots eroded and job opportunities in tourism gone. For them to bring change, they need real understanding around climate and environment issues, tangible instruments for environment conservation and platforms to demand protective actions from local and national decision-making entities.   

Byounique Trust believes that to really offer our trained youth a good future, we also have to support them to preserve a conducive living environment. Therefore, we implement 4 nature-conservation projects:

1. Nature classes at our NatureGarden

2. Nature and Permaculture and Tree-planting activities in schools

3. Permaculture trainings with youth organizations and local communities

4. Permaculture demonstration plot and nursery at our Training Centre