ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH NATURAL REGENARATION AND FOREST CONSERVATION

About this Project

Chitika Village Forest Area  and World Connect Malawi will co-invest in a project  aimed at promoting natural regeneration at the community created VFA in Rumphi District. The project envisages adding 60 more hives, procuring harvesting and processing materials, and in-depth training that will equip the community with relevant skills and ability to run and sustain the project. A total of 62 households are to benefit from this project once completed. The generated income will among others support the community to build a community clinic, rehabilitate an early childhood development center, community water connections and continue helping the needy and in the area. 

Using $5,148.48, The Chitandika Village Forest Area has purchased 3 bee suits, 4 honey sieves, 350 packaging bottles, 4 harvesting buckets and made 20 beehives in addition to 15 hanged in the first small grants project. Additionally, the group has also trained 16 farmers in financial management/book keeping, honey packaging and marketing, honey harvesting and processing, hive making and management to allow them successfully to run their business.  The group remains with procurement of 40 beehives, bee suits and print stickers for the honey packaging bottles to complete the project

Chitandika Forest Area implemented a beekeeping project in Chitandika Village, Rumphi, aimed at restoring forests and supporting community livelihoods. With $5,148.48 from Mudzi Connect, 50 beehives and essential equipment were procured and installed. A total of 33 members received training in hive construction, honey production, processing, marketing, group dynamics, and financial management. The project successfully restored 8.3 hectares of degraded forest while promoting the sustainable use of non-timber products such as honey, fruits, and medicinal plants. Honey production increased by 41%, from 75 kg to 128 kg, with 76 kg sold to generate MWK 306,000, which was used to support vulnerable individuals through food and educational assistance. Lenson Jumbo, a 66-year-old community member, shared how the project has transformed his life: “The most significant change in my family is that I now harvest and sell honey, mushrooms, and fruits to generate income. I have also become a community leader advocating for forest conservation. I am no longer dependent on others for financial support, as I have gained skills in resource mobilization and financial management. Through village savings and loans groups, I now inspire other men to follow my example and take control of their lives.”