By Burnett Munthali
Judiciary officials yesterday led a tree-planting exercise at Katewe Magistrate Court premises in Dedza District as part of their efforts to promote environmental conservation. The event was spearheaded by Chief Justice Rezine Mzikamanda, who emphasized the judiciary’s role in protecting the environment beyond courtroom judgments.
Speaking during the ceremony, Chief Justice Mzikamanda highlighted the importance of practical action in preserving nature. He noted that while the judiciary enforces environmental laws through sentencing offenders, it was equally important for officers of the court to engage directly in conservation efforts.
“We impose penalties on those who break environmental laws, but we have realized that it is also our responsibility to contribute to environmental protection practically, not just through judgments,” Mzikamanda remarked.
The exercise was supported by funding from First Capital Bank (FCB), which provided resources for the initiative. A total of 300 trees were planted during the event, symbolizing a commitment to reversing deforestation and combating the adverse effects of climate change.
Judiciary staff and local community members actively participated in the tree-planting exercise, demonstrating a collaborative effort in promoting sustainable environmental practices. The initiative underscored the importance of partnerships between institutions and communities in addressing environmental challenges.
This activity is part of broader efforts by the judiciary to integrate environmental conservation into their corporate social responsibility agenda. By taking action on the ground, the judiciary hopes to inspire other institutions and individuals to join the fight against environmental degradation.
The tree-planting initiative at Katewe Magistrate Court premises serves as a reminder of the urgent need for collective efforts to protect and restore Malawi’s natural environment.
