Reforesting Malawi’s ‘Island in the Sky’ to Save Its Vanishing Woodlands

Mount Mulanje in Malawi faces serious deforestation, threatening its rich biodiversity and cultural significance. Efforts to revive the endangered Mulanje cedar through reforestation and community cooperation are underway, especially following the devastation caused by Cyclone Freddy. Various initiatives focus on sustainable practices in agriculture and forest management, highlighting the need for continued action to protect these natural resources and support local populations.

Malawi’s Mount Mulanje is critical for biodiversity and local culture but has faced severe deforestation due to illegal logging and demand for resources. The Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust has advocated for the recovery of the native Mulanje cedar, an endangered tree species of high cultural and ecological significance. Reforestation projects aim to generate income for local communities while tackling poverty and environmental degradation.

The impact of Tropical Cyclone Freddy in March 2023, which caused devastating floods and landslides, highlighted the urgent need for conservation. Communities historically dependent on the mountain have witnessed drastic changes, including depleted water sources and dwindling wildlife, prompting a newfound appreciation for forest conservation.

Known as the “Island in the Sky,” Mt. Mulanje rises sharply with diverse ecosystems hosting nearly 70 endemic plant species, and is home to nine major rivers. Despite its protected status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1927, illegal activities continue to threaten its biodiversity.

Surrounding the mountain, over a million people rely on agriculture, primarily tea production and subsistence farming. The historically rich miombo woodlands, which once supplied food and firewood, have suffered significant declines due to overharvesting and climate impacts, posing further challenges to local livelihoods.

Mulanje cedar populations have plummeted significantly, with an extensive survey conducted in 2017 revealing only seven living specimens remaining. Conservation efforts began in 2004 but faced many obstacles, including forest fires and poor seedling survival rates. Recent strategies have improved through community involvement and increased focus on fire protection.

By 2019, the MMCT had planted hundreds of thousands of cedar seedlings, incorporating community nurseries and innovative planting techniques. The challenge of climate change and pests continues, but some seedlings are now surviving into maturity and producing seeds.

Illegal logging remains a persistent threat, complicated by resource limitations for enforcement agencies and corruption issues. Significant efforts are being made, including firebreak establishment and community engagement in firefighting, to protect young trees from fire damage.

Efforts to restore miombo woodlands focus on affordable sustainable practices. They promote natural regeneration and alternative income generation, including projects that allow the sustainable harvesting of local fruit and mushroom species. Community partnerships enhance forest management and biodiversity protection.

The MMCT seeks to develop new sources of income, including value-added products from local plants while addressing ongoing challenges in maintaining forested areas and improving local living conditions. Continuous collaboration and investment are essential for the long-term success of these conservation initiatives.

The challenges facing Mount Mulanje illustrate the delicate balance between environmental conservation and community needs. The loss of biodiversity, particularly the Mulanje cedar, emphasizes the urgency for focused protection efforts and community involvement. Sustainable practices could support both ecological recovery and improved livelihoods in this vulnerable region of Malawi.

Original Source: news.mongabay.com