The German funding agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture in the Malawi-Zambia Transfrontier Conservation Area (TFCA), a cornerstone of IFAW’s Room to Roam initiative.
The extended partnership, which will continue until December 2025, marks a significant milestone in promoting environmentally friendly farming practices and safeguarding biodiversity.
In collaboration with COMACO, the project has already positively impacted over 5,000 smallholder farmers. By introducing climate-smart techniques, such as legume cultivation, the initiative has not only enhanced livelihoods but also boosted food security and increased crop yields.
“This project has been a game-changer for our community,” said Grace, a local farmer. “We’ve learned how to grow crops that are better for the environment and our pockets.”
In a region grappling with illegal deforestation, mining, and poaching, these sustainable farming advancements are crucial. Farmers have also embraced the planting of Gliricidia sepium, a natural soil enhancer, reducing their reliance on chemical fertilizers and preserving local forests.
“The introduction of Gliricidia sepium has been a blessing,” said Tackwell, another farmer. “Our soil is healthier, and we’re able to produce more food.”
The project has also invested in community resilience by providing boreholes for access to clean water and granaries for secure food storage. Additionally, farmers are learning innovative income-generating activities, such as beekeeping, to diversify their livelihoods.
Addressing the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, the project is empowering farmers with non-lethal methods to protect their crops from elephant raids. These strategies promote peaceful coexistence between communities and wildlife.
“We are committed to working with local communities to find solutions that benefit both people and wildlife,” said [Name], a representative from GIZ.
This collaboration, which spans eight chiefdoms, is a testament to the power of partnership in driving positive change. With continued support from GIZ, the Malawi-Zambia TFCA is poised to become a model for sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.
