MEPA STRATEGIC PLAN LAUNCHED
The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) successfully unveiled a five-year strategic plan which is a roadmap for protection and conservation of the environment and sustainable utilisation of natural resources in the c ountry.
The plan which provides direction and an overarching framework for prioritizing and allocating resources from 2023 to 2028, closely aligns with the country’s priorities. It draws inspiration from the Malawi Vision 2063, particularly focusing on Environmental Sustainability, with the aim of transforming Malawi into a clean, secure, and sustainable environment. Additionally, the plan aligns with global and regional frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
At its core, the Strategic Plan acknowledges the interdependence of environmental protection, social equity, and economic prosperity. It delineates clear objectives and actionable strategies to tackle pressing environmental challenges facing Malawi, such as climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Key areas covered include improving environmental governance, enhancing environmental awareness, and enforcing compliance monitoring.
The launch of the plan signifies a significant milestone in Malawi’s collective efforts to safeguard and conserve the natural resources vital for sustaining life in the Southern African nation.
Dr. Michael Usi, Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change, presided over the ceremony that befittingly took place at Woodlands Hotel right inside the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary recently.
The Minister passionately called for collective determination between his Ministry and all stakeholders to prioritize environmental sustainability in all endeavors.
“Let us leverage the power of partnerships, innovation, and community engagement to catalyze positive change and forge a more resilient and prosperous future for Malawi,” he emphasized.
He said: “As Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change, I am acutely aware of the critical importance of environmental conservation for the well-being of our people and the prosperity of our nation.
Our environment not only sustains livelihoods but also forms the cornerstone of our economy. Therefore, it is imperative to implement regulatory measures that ensure developmental actions safeguard the environment and promote sustainable development.”
Dr. Usi then called upon lead agencies, academia, civil society organizations, and the private sector to collaborate with MEPA in combatting environmental degradation and conserving natural resources.
“This plan cannot be effectively executed without the support of our development partners. We will, therefore, earnestly seek your assistance. Let us unite with renewed vigor and determination to implement the MEPA Strategic Plan and secure a brighter, greener future for generations to come,” He concluded.
Dr. Robert Kafakoma, MEPA Board Chairman, highlighted that the strategic plan enables MEPA to outline how the authority will collaborate with lead agencies such as city councils and government departments like the Department of Forestry, Water Resources, and Roads Authority, among others.
The board chairman concurred with the Minister that the authority cannot function competently without support from partners, stressing the need for adequate resources for MEPA to fulfill its mandate.