By Suleman Chitera
Ntcheu, Malawi – One Acre Fund, a non-profit organization committed to improving agricultural sustainability, recently emphasized the importance of tree nurseries in promoting resilience and enhancing soil health in local communities. During a visit to tree nurseries in Kadzakalowa and Kam’bebe, both in Traditional Authority Kwataine, the organization underscored its commitment to empowering farmers with knowledge and resources to restore and protect their land.
Donald Chunga, One Acre Fund’s Agriculture Relations Assistant, shared that the organization manages 168 tree nurseries across six Extension Planning Areas (EPAs) in Ntcheu District, nurturing over 2 million tree seedlings. In addition to managing these nurseries, One Acre Fund offers farmers training on how to care for the nurseries and distributes seedlings free of charge.
Chunga explained that these initiatives align with the Malawian government’s Climate Smart Program, which advocates for reforestation and soil conservation practices to combat erosion. “Our efforts are aimed at helping farmers restore land by planting trees and building terraces,” he noted. By promoting these practices, the organization hopes to mitigate climate challenges that have impacted agricultural productivity in the region.
Community member Francis Milison praised the project, acknowledging its positive impact on climate resilience and soil health. “These tree nurseries are vital for building our resilience against climate change and ensuring that our soil remains productive,” Milison said.
In addition to tree nursery management, One Acre Fund is implementing its “Impact Venture Program” in areas under Senior Chief Njolomole, Ganya, Masasa, Kwataine, Mwakwangwala, and Champiti. Supported by USAID, this program focuses on planting diverse tree species, including Acacia, M’thethe, Nsangu, and Mtangatanga, to provide a variety of environmental benefits tailored to local conditions.
With these initiatives, One Acre Fund continues to work toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for Malawian farmers, empowering communities to safeguard their land and improve their livelihoods.
