By Monica Banda

Mchinji, March 12, Mana: The Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CSEPWP) District Project Facilitator for Mchinji, Thandie Sukali, has expressed satisfaction with the community's efforts in conserving degraded land in their catchment areas.

In an interview with MANA on Monday, Sukali commended catchment members for their diligent work in implementing conservation measures under the public works programme during a media tour to some of the catchments.

"I have witnessed the dedication of the participants in constructing structures like contour bands, and semi secular bands which will effectively reduce soil erosion and soil degradation in the catchments areas,” said Sukali.

She highlighted the significance of implementing measures to mitigate water runoff, which often leads to soil erosion and the loss of fertile soils.

Yohane Nyirenda, Chairperson of Kamphoro catchment area in Traditional Authority (TA) Kapunula, echoed Sukali's sentiments, emphasising the positive impact of constructing structures like contour ridges, check dams, and half-moons in preventing soil erosion.

"These measures help to retain water in the soil by enhancing infiltration and also safeguards our crops from being washed away as the speed of water is reduced,” Nyirenda explained.

The participants in the programme are given K28,800 as wages at the end of the 24-day cycle.

Diveliyasi Phiri, another member of the catchment, attested to the transformative impact of the programme on her community.

"The income from the programme has also enabled us to establish village banks and loans, facilitating access to essential resources such as fertilizer and education for our children."

Phiri expressed gratitude to the government for implementing the programme and emphasized the newfound awareness of environmental conservation within the community.

"Previously, environmental degradation was rampant, but now, with the CSEPWP, we are committed to conserving our environment and ensuring sustainable livelihoods," Phiri remarked.

CSEPWP aims at improving the quality of life in targeted communities, and has already targeted over 19,362 individuals, providing essential income and fostering environmental stewardship.

The government programme is a component of Social Support for Resilient Livelihood Programme (SSRLP) funded by the World Bank and Social Protection Multi Donor Trust Fund.