By Jones Gadama
The European Union (EU) has launched a five-year €60 million program aimed at preserving, restoring, and regenerating Malawi’s natural resource base and diverse ecosystems.
The Ulimi ndi Chilengedwe (UCHI) program will be implemented in ten district councils, including Chitipa, Kasungu, and Thyolo.
EU Ambassador to Malawi, Rune Skinnebach, said the project aims to help diversify the agriculture sector and make it more resilient to climate change, as well as generate revenue for the country’s economy.
“Malawi has not benefited from the agriculture sector due to the impact of climate change-induced effects,” Skinnebach said.
Minister of Natural Resources, Owen Chomanika, has called for prudence among district councils in the use of the funds to save the country’s fast-depleting natural resources, which are averaging two percent each year. “It is crucial that the funds are used effectively to achieve the program’s objectives,” Chomanika said.
The UCHI program is expected to have a positive impact on Malawi’s environment and economy.
By preserving and restoring the country’s natural resources, the program will help to promote sustainable agriculture practices, reduce the impact of climate change, and generate revenue for the country.
The program’s focus on diversifying the agriculture sector and making it more resilient to climate change is particularly important for Malawi’s economic development. With the country’s natural resources being depleted at an alarming rate, the UCHI program comes at a critical time to address these challenges.
The EU’s support for Malawi’s environmental conservation efforts is a testament to the organization’s commitment to promoting sustainable development in the country.
The UCHI program is expected to make a significant contribution to Malawi’s efforts to protect its natural resources and promote economic growth.
