Malawi has been encouraged to urgently strengthen climate action as worsening droughts, floods and environmental degradation continue to threaten food security, livelihoods and economic growth across the country.
The warning comes as the world marks World Environment Day 2026, with the Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC) saying climate change is no longer a future threat but a present crisis already affecting millions of Malawians.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Julius Ng’oma and Board Chairperson Gift Numeri, CISONECC has called on the government to strengthen climate policies, increase investment in adaptation and mitigation programmes, and accelerate efforts to protect vulnerable communities from climate-related disasters.
The network also urged development partners, businesses and citizens to play a bigger role in environmental conservation and climate resilience.
“As the world reflects on the urgent signals from the changing climate, CISONECC urges all stakeholders to move beyond commitments and translate climate ambitions into tangible actions that deliver real benefits for people and the planet. Together, we can build a climate-resilient Malawi and ensure a healthier, safer, and more sustainable environment for all,” reads part of the statement.
The organization warned that the growing frequency of climate-related disasters is undermining national development efforts and worsening poverty, particularly among communities that depend on natural resources for survival.
It further called on communities to embrace tree planting, sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation, while urging the private sector to adopt environmentally friendly practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“The Government of Malawi to strengthen climate policies, enhance implementation of adaptation and mitigation measures, and increase investments in environmental protection and resilience building,” added CISONECC.
The organization further said protecting forests, wetlands, water bodies and other ecosystems is essential for building resilient communities and securing a sustainable future.
Commemorated under the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” this year’s World Environment Day calls on governments, communities, civil society organizations, businesses and citizens to accelerate action against climate change while safeguarding the future of coming generations.
