07/06/2026
On 5th June, Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC) in collaboration with partners organized a panel discussion on “Harnessing Environmental Sustainability to Achieve Malawi’s Development Goals in the Face of Climate Change. The panel discussion was held as part of commemoration.
Dr. Lilian Chimphepo, Chief Environmental Officer from Environmental Affairs Department said that, while everyone has the right to utilize natural resources, we must do so responsibly and to prevent environmental degradation. she said that, the responsibility of protecting the environment belongs to everyone. A lack of coordination and ownership is one of the major challenges
Senior Chief Chamba, from Machinga district said that laws exist, but they are not being effectively enforced. People do not destroy trees solely because of poverty; some do so out of a destructive attitude and lack of concern for the environment.
Supt. Grace Mbingwa, from Malawi Police Service said that the police work closely with forestry officials to safeguard natural resources while also ensuring that people's rights are respected. “Blaming one another will not solve the problem, instead, all stakeholders must work together,” she said.
Bishop Emmanuel Oscar Kawinga, from faith community said that, if faith leaders remain silent, progress will be difficult. He emphasized that the role of faith leaders extends beyond preaching spiritual messages; they must also encourage people to take responsibility in combating environmental destruction.
Lisa Banda, CISONECC Programme Officer said that civil society organizations continue to promote collaboration and emphasized that everyone from duty bearers to local communities must play their role in environmental conservation. She emphasized that, environmental protection is not the responsibility of one person alone; the challenges Malawi is facing with unsustainable use of natural resources requires collective action.
Vitumbiko Chijere Chirwa, from the University of Malawi - UNIMA said that efforts to address environmental degradation should be guided by the aspirations of Malawi 2063 and by a transformation in mindset.
“No policy can succeed without the active participation, commitment, and ownership of the people it is intended to serve,” he said.
The discussion brought together representatives from government, traditional leaders, law enforcement agencies, academia, university students, civil society, the media and the faith community.
SCIAF Centre for Environmental Policy and Advocacy Trocaire Irish Aid Pan African Climate Justice Alliance Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi Jersey Overseas Aid CARD Malawi Malawi Government Norwegian Church Aid Malawi
