THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF ZOMBA PLATEAU

 HISTORY OF ZOMBA PLATEAU

The plateau is home to the Zomba Forest Reserve, which covers an area of about 350 square kilometers. The reserve is known for its biodiversity with over 400 species of birds and over 200 species of butterflies.  Its also home to some of the last remaining stands of indigenous Miombo woodlot in Malawi. There are 60 different species of mammals that live in the reserve, including bushbuck, duiker, vervet monkeys, baboons and warthogs. There are also several  different species of snakes, lizrd, frogs, and toad and there are even some rare and endangered species like the Pangolin and the Leorpad. Some people even say that Zomba plateau is the ''Everest of Malawi'' because of its rugged and mountainous terrain. Below is a figure showing the part of Zomba Plateau:

FIGURE 1: Photo of Zomba plateau( November,2023)


Its also a popular destination for hikers and campers with several well-marked trails and designated campsites. The area is relatively cool and pleasant,....thanks to its high elevation...The weather is generally mild with daytime temperature ranging from 18 to 25 degrees celcius. Zomba plateau is a very unique and special place not just because  of its natural beauty but also because of its culture and historical significance. The plateau is home to several tradition villages where visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions. The plateau is an important site for research and conservation with several scientific institution located nearby. The plateau is a sacred site for population who believed that it has spiritual and cultural significance. Plateau is also  a popular destination for history buffs, as it was the site of the first British settlement in Malawi. In addition to the stunning scenery, Zomba plateau also offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Malawi.

HOW FAR IS IT FROM THE TOWN OF ZOMBA TO THE  PLATEAU?

The town of Zomba is located at the base of Zomba plateau, about 10 kilometers away.  From the town, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to the plateau, and there are several routes to choose from. The most popular route is via Zomba plateau  Road, which winds through the forest slopes of the plateau. This road offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular route for sightseeing. There are also several hiking trails that start from the town of Zomba and lead to the plateau.

FEATURES FOUND INSIDE ZOMBA PLATEAU

Dams

There is a dam inside the plateau. This dam is called MULUNGUDZI DAM. The Mulungudzi Dam is actually the main source of water for the city of Zomba. It was built in the 1980s to provide water in the city of Zomba. Its a tourist destination with visitors coming to enjoy the scenic views and the abundance of  wildlife in the area. The figure below shows some part of the Mulungudzi  Dam:


FIGURE 2: Photo of Mulungudzi Dam( November, 2023)

There is also a hotel called Sun Bird Hotel, ku Chawe Inn. This hotel is used for accomodation, tourist attraction, conference meetings, etc. This hotel helps to bring currency as it attract people outside Malawi, even local people. The figure below shows part of the buildings of Sub Bird Hotel which is found inside the Zomba plateau:

FIGURE 3: Sun Bird Hotel ku Chawe Inn( November, 2023)



BENEFIT OF THE PLATEAU TO THE PEOPLE SURROUNDING IT AND TO THE ECONOMY OF MALAWI.

There are many benefits that Zomba plateau brings to the people who live nearby and to the economy of Malawi as a whole. First, the plateau provides a source of fresh water for the people living in the surrounding area, including the city of Zomba. second, the forests on the plateau help to regulate the climate in the region, providing a cool and pleasant environment for the people to live. Third, the plateau is a popular destination for tourist, which helps to generate revenue for the local economy.

HOW TO TAKE CARE  THE  PLATEAU?

There are several things that people can do to ensure that Zomba plateau remains a sustainable and vibrant ecosystem for future generations. First its important  to protect the forest cover on the plateau, as this helps to regulate the climate and prevent soil erosion. Second, it's important to practice sustainable agriculture in the region to ensure that the soil remain fertile and productive. Third, it's important to educate the local people about the importance of preserving the natural environment of Zomba plateau. Finally, it's important to create economic opportunities for the local people, so that they have an incentive to protect the plateau.

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Visit Zomba Plateau Today!!!!!

 Along-side Mulungudzi Dam


Writer's Name: HOSSANA  HBC  CHIKOPA

Contact:         (+265) 998 90 62 74 /  881 96 52 75

A student from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. ( LUANAR-BUNDA CAMPUS )


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