Deforestation overshadows reforestation drive in Michesi, Mulanje forest reserves

What was meant to signal hope for environmental restoration is instead raising alarm among nearby communities, as Michesi and Mulanje Forest Reserves face a sharp increase in illegal activities turning vast stretches of protected forest into farmland and charcoal sites.

In some areas, communities are harvesting maize while others are planting beans inside the reserves, activities strictly prohibited under forest protection laws.

This is happening despite the official launch of this year’s national tree planting season at the same forest reserves, an event led by Second Vice President Enock Chihana.

However, what was meant to signal the start of restoration efforts has instead been followed by increased destruction on the ground. Observers say not a single tree has been planted in some of the targeted areas since the launch, with sections of forest instead being cleared.

Some officials and local leaders had earlier agreed to petition the government to deploy the Malawi Defence Force to patrol and protect the reserves from encroachment.

However, Paramount Chief Kaduya, who was assigned to present the proposal to the Second Vice President during the launch event, reportedly faced strong resistance.

The opposition was anchored on calls for the government to first provide alternative economic support to communities living around the reserves before any eviction measures are enforced.

The stance was also supported by the Member of Parliament for Phalombe South, Tiaone Hendry, who chairs the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources.

Since the launch, reports indicate that sections along the Phalombe–Mpata road have been heavily cleared, with illegal charcoal burning and farming continuing openly. Some encroachers are reportedly defending their actions, saying they were encouraged to remain until the government provides alternative livelihoods.

Environmental observers describe the situation as a missed opportunity, arguing that instead of tree planting taking place, the area has effectively witnessed accelerated deforestation immediately after a national restoration event.

They warn that continued destruction of forest cover could have lasting environmental impacts, including soil erosion, reduced rainfall patterns, and loss of biodiversity, while also threatening the livelihoods of communities that depend on forest resources.