“Forestry Dept opens irrigation schemes”

Government has introduced irrigation farming in South Rukuru Valley in Rumphi as an alternative source of income to charcoal making. According to district forestry officer Gift Nyirenda, charcoal makers are wiping out trees along the banks of one of the inlets of Lake Malawi. “We have opened the schemes between Phwezi and Bole to provide a substitute to charcoal makers. I am happy that we are making progress in conserving the environment in the area, he said. The district is home to 50 village forests managed by communities. Senior Chief Mwankhunikira encouraged them to plant more trees and avoid wanton cutting down of trees.