MALAWI WATERSHED SERVICES IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (MWASIP) FIELD VISIT

 (NAMITEMBO VLAP)-ZOMBA DISTRICT

Introduction

The project was created to improve and increase the adoption of sustainable landscape management practices in priority watershed services in the targeted watersheds. However, degradation in most critical watersheds has reached alarming levels, with significant impacts on water security and Agricultural productivity. Degradation of these renewable natural resources base (land, water, forests) has greatly affected the country and high exposure and vulnerability to climate change have adversely affected water and agriculture productivity and livelihoods.




On June 18, 2024, our team visited the MWASIP project in Namitembo Village (4C7), which is under Chingale Catchment area and it is also composed of four catchments. The area also comprises of 25 VLAP. In Namitembo, it covers 125ha. The project aims to promote sustainable agriculture and natural resource management practices among local farmers. The work started last year and there were 150 farmers but now the number has grown up.

Aim of the group:

v  Making manure

v  Managing forest

v  Managing farms e.g. construction of check dams, marker ridges(kalozela), etc.

Objectives:

The MWASIP project objectives include:

Ø  Restoring degraded landscapes in priority river basins and improve water security, agricultural productivity and livelihoods.

Ø  Improving soil fertility and water conservation through check dams

Ø  Enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services through natural regeneration management

Ø   Promoting climate-resilient agriculture through agroforestry

Ø   Establishing nursery beds for tree and crop seedlings

 Observations:

1.     1) Check dam:



 

 

 




We saw how the check dam helps to harvest rainwater and reduce soil erosion. The farmers reported increased crop yields and improved soil moisture. 

2. Natural regeneration management:










FIGURE 2: Natural Regeneration Management

We learned about the importance of preserving native vegetation and promoting ecological balance. The farmers showed us areas where natural regeneration has been successful.

2.      Agroforestry Management:



FIGURE 3: Agroforestry Management

We saw how agroforestry practices have improved soil health, reduced pests and diseases, and increased crop diversity. The farmers shared their experiences with different agroforestry models. The farmers planted 1800 trees (Grilicidia sepium), and out of that only 1300 trees done well. The most challenge that farmers face under this part is shortage of water

3.      Nursery beds:



FIGURE 4: Nursery Bed

 

We visited the nursery and saw various tree and crop seedlings being raised. The farmers explained the importance of using high-quality seeds and sustainable nursery practices.



Challenges faced by Farmers in their groups

v  Little plastic bags which farmers uses in their nursery beds

v  Little knowledge on how to manage their resources

v  Negative attitudes from other local farmers

v  Poor recording of information based on their groups

Special advices from the extension workers to the farmers

·         Need for the farmers to ask questions wherever necessary for more clarifications.

·         Need for co-operation (team-work)

·         Need for construction of fire break in order to protect the forest

·         Farmers must always have in mind that the owner of the forest is government and them

Conclusion:

The MWASIP is a valuable initiative that promotes sustainable agriculture and natural resource management practices. We gained valuable insights into the importance of integrating environmental conservation with agricultural practices.

Recommendations:

Establish a monitoring and evaluation system to track project impact

Acknowledgments:

We thank farmers, project staff, and extension workers at Namitembo VLAP for hosting us and sharing their knowledge and experiences.

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Written By: HOSSANA CHIKOPA

Contact: 0881965275/ 0998906274

Email Address: hossanachikopa10@gmail.com

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