Climate change is one of the most profound and complex issues in Malawian society, affecting the economy, among other things. Deforestation has significantly contributed to climate change. Malawi has experienced several unfavorable climatic periods in recent decades. The most severe ones include dry spells, seasonal drought, intense rainfall, high water levels, and floods.
What is GZB doing to improve the situation?
GZB has initiated the “Go Green, Our Collective Responsibility” project. Young people from various churches and surrounding communities are asked to plant trees in the vicinity of their church. The sowing and planting of trees are carried out by the overarching committee. “We believe that as a church, we are important stakeholders and have a role and responsibility to care for the nature around us.”
What does the project entail?
The project focuses on sowing and planting trees, providing community education, and increasing local awareness. Youth from the Presbyterian Church grow and plant trees to combat deforestation. It is a small-scale project aiming to plant approximately 25,000 seedlings. Training sessions will also be conducted for youth leaders from local churches on sowing, planting, and transplanting. The goal is not only to combat deforestation but also to empower local people.
“We believe that as a church, we are important stakeholders and have a role and responsibility to care for the nature around us.”
What does the project achieve?
- Education for youth about the importance of nature conservation.
- Educating about the significance of combating deforestation.
- Sowing and planting trees.
- Transplanting and caring for 25,000 trees to promote forest regrowth.
- Caring for the trees also includes monitoring, as people often cut down trees for firewood. The planted trees are watched and tended to by the youth.