Zomba Forest Lodge, in partnership with First Capital Bank, has criticized the practice of deforestation on Zomba Mountain, stating that this activity contributes to climate change and the occurrence of natural disasters.
The Director of Zomba Forest Lodge, Thom Inch, made these remarks at Sunbird Ku Chawe during the “Run for Reforestation” event, which was organized to raise funds and awareness for environmental conservation and the promotion of tourism in the district.
Thom said he believes that a strong partnership among stakeholders would strengthen efforts to protect trees on Zomba Mountain and its surrounding areas.
Thom stated that it is important to raise awareness among local communities about the benefits of preserving the environment, so that they take the initiative to protect trees and help prevent problems that arise from environmental destruction.
“Educating people about the importance of environmental conservation and working together across all sectors involved in environmental protection can help us safeguard the environment on Zomba Mountain,” Thom said.
He further added that Zomba Mountain is a tourist destination, so protecting its natural resources can enhance tourism and the local economy.
Adding his voice, Senior Human Resources Business Partner for First Capital Bank, Arthur Lipande, said the bank saw it as a wise move to support the event, recognizing the importance of the environment and the need to protect trees on Zomba Mountain.
Lipande stated that climate change and sudden natural disasters are increasing in the country because people are destroying the environment by cutting down trees carelessly in protected areas.
“We appeal to everyone in this country to join hands in taking care of our environment. Let us stop the careless cutting of trees so we can prevent the problems that are arising from environmental destruction,” Lipande said.
He also advised the people living in Zomba city to avoid the habit of cutting down trees on Zomba Mountain, warning that this could negatively affect tourism and reduce the income generated from tourism-related activities.
He added that if environmental destruction continues on Zomba Mountain, the city should expect many problems, such as a shortage of water, as the mountain is a key water source for various uses.
At the event, a 25-kilometer race was held, with professional athletes from Zomba and Mulanje districts competing.
Dolis Fisha emerged as the winner in the women’s category, completing the 25-kilometer distance in one hour and forty minutes. She expressed gratitude to Zomba Forest Lodge and First Capital Bank for organizing the race, saying it helped her improve her fitness and earn money to support her family.
She received a cash prize of 300,000 kwacha for being the top-performing athlete in the race.
