Conservation in Malawi

The fact that Malawi is one of the most densely populated areas in Sub-Saharan Africa is reflected in the state of its environment, with natural vegetation being badly affected by human action.

Swamps have been drained and cultivated, making way for agricultural species. Wells have also been sunk and rivers dammed to provide for agricultural irrigation schemes.

A recent report by the WWF (June 2006) painted a bleak picture for Malawi's forests, parks and reserves, highlighting exploitation and deforestation as severe problems requiring immediate addressing.

The report stated that logging and forest conversions for agricultural purposes played a major role in the disappearance of the countries forests and deterioration of its national parks.

The consensus among the international community seems to be that the problem is compounded by ineffective management of the forests and reserves. If Malawi is to salvage the situation, there needs to be a collective push by the Malawian government and the international community to enforce and ensure the proper management of its precious natural resources.

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