Malawi University Science and Technology (MUST) launched Spatial Biodiversity Assessment Prioritisation and Planning (SBAPP) on Thursday in Salima.
The project aims to develop and enhance SBAPP processes and products in four Southern African countries in order to strengthen the national knowledge base on biodiversity and ensure the knowledge informs land use planning and decision making.
Speaking with reporters, Environmental Affairs Department Deputy Director Michael Makonombera said more effort is needed to preserve and protect biodiversity in the country for the benefit of future generation.
Makonombera said Government have managed to put policy legislation framework to guide various stakeholders including those from Academia.
Civil Society Organizations have take Initiatives towards management and conservation of biodiversity but there is a need to do more.
He added that it is a call for everyone to do enough because management of environment is not the responsibility of government and the ministry but a collective responsibility.
“As the government is exploring ways to support sustainable livelihoods, businesses and the entire economy, it is aware of the important role biodiversity has in this regard”,He explained
On his Part,Malawi University Science and Technology (MUST) Director of Research and Outreach Professor Alfred Maluwa said that the eyes of the university eyes are firmly focused on contributing towards national development in a more meaningful manner.
Ha noted that biodiversity is essential for the process that support all life Earth , including humans . Without a wide range of animals, plants and microorganisms, the country cannot have the heathy ecosystems that they rely on provide them with air to breath and the food .
National Coordinator for the project Dr Tiwonge .J.Mzumara -Gawa said that there is a need to reach out to people in areas where the project will be implemented so that they should know and have knowledge on what is happening on the ground.