By: Kassim Kajosolo
The Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust (MMCT) and the Mulanje Police have reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve.
Following a strategic meeting with Officer-in-Charge of Mulanje Police Station, Moses Chibwe, MMCT Executive Director Carl Bruessow stated that the primary goal was to revitalise joint efforts against illegal deforestation within the reserve.
Bruessow noted, “The main objective was to strengthen collaboration between the police, community policing structures, and key stakeholders in addressing deforestation challenges around Mulanje Mountain.”
He stressed the pressing need for unified action to conserve the forest and mitigate environmental degradation. He further reiterated MMCT’s commitment to engaging with local communities—especially within Traditional Authorities Njema and Sunganinzeru—to curb the illegal felling of trees.
Bruessow also disclosed that MMCT would soon roll out a comprehensive project focused on tackling deforestation in the forest reserve.
In response, Chibwe praised MMCT for its ongoing and forthcoming initiatives.
He reaffirmed the commitment of both Mulanje Police officers and community policing teams to collaborate closely with MMCT.
“The police will intensify awareness campaigns on forest conservation and ensure that those involved in illegal logging are brought to justice,” he said.
Established in 1927, the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve is home to a variety of tree species that face severe pressure from logging, raising major ecological concerns.
The reserve spans over 56,000 hectares and includes threatened species such as the Mulanje cedar, Miombo woodlands, and pine.