Reforesting Malawi’s ‘Island in the Sky’ to Combat Deforestation

Mount Mulanje, rich in biodiversity and cultural importance, suffers from severe deforestation, particularly the Mulanje cedar. Cyclone Freddy catalyzed awareness among local communities about the importance of conservation. Ongoing reforestation efforts involve community engagement to increase seedling survival and address environmental degradation while emphasizing the need for consistent support and funding to protect local ecosystems.

Malawi’s Mount Mulanje, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and cultural significance, has witnessed drastic deforestation in its miombo woodlands and high-elevation forests over recent decades. The Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust and various collaborators have dedicated two decades to reviving the Munanje cedar (Widdringtonia whytei), Malawi’s national tree and an endemic species.

After Tropical Cyclone Freddy devastated Malawi in March 2023, many communities surrounding Mount Mulanje recognized the urgency of preserving their natural environment. The cyclone wrought havoc, displacing over 650,000 residents and transforming the once forested landscapes into barren hills due to illegal logging and damaging fires.

Known as the “Island in the Sky,” Mount Mulanje features diverse ecosystems across its 64,000 hectares, from fertile miombo woodlands to mist-covered forests rich with endemic plant species. The mountain, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, faces continuous threats to its biodiversity, as over one million locals rely on the land for agriculture amidst deteriorating forest conditions.

Historically, the miombo woodlands provided ample resources, but deforestation has severely impacted the availability of firewood and wild fruits. Consequently, women often traverse great distances to gather essential materials, while rivers are drying up due to environmental degradation.

Malawi’s economic struggles exacerbate challenges, as climate change continues to alter weather patterns, leading to prolonged dry seasons and increased cyclonic activity. The Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve has lost approximately 21% of its primary forest cover from 2002 to 2023, with the impact of Cyclone Freddy accelerating this troubling trend.

The Mulanje cedar has especially faced significant decline, with an extensive survey in 2017 revealing just seven live specimens remaining. Conservationists initiated a replanting program in 2004 and have since improved survival rates through community engagement, fire management, and innovative planting strategies. However, fire remains a persistent threat fueled by illegal activities.

Community-driven initiatives have enhanced reforestation efforts, with increased production of cedar seedlings and support from organizations like WeForest, which also focuses on sustainable practices within the adjacent miombo woodlands. Through financial backing and technical guidance, these efforts aim to regenerate and maintain biodiversity in these vital ecosystems.

Final thoughts from MMCT’s executive director, Carl Bruessow, emphasize the dire situation facing the mountain, despite some progress in reforestation. He advocates for consistent support to effect meaningful change, highlighting the need for reliable funding to protect these unique environments and their associated wildlife.

Mount Mulanje is a critical ecological and cultural asset in Malawi, currently facing severe threats from deforestation, climate change, and socio-economic challenges. Ongoing reforestation efforts, particularly for the endangered Mulanje cedar, demonstrate the potential for community engagement and innovative solutions. Sustained funding and support for local conservation initiatives are essential to mitigate environmental decline and preserve the biodiversity of this unique location.

Original Source: news.mongabay.com