Monitor, monitor, monitor! Intervention at Mikulumu village

Mbedza is committed to long term monitoring. We know that frequent monitoring is essential for the success of the projects, ensuring communities properly care for the trees and effectively use the stoves provided. A recent study highlighted the need for closer interaction between project officers and community workers. In response, officers James Mataka and Kenneth have taken the lead in implementing this approach.

After a detailed monitoring exercise in the Senior Chief Mlumbe area, specifically in the Group Village Mikulumu, the officers noted significant progress in both the tree and stove projects. However, they also identified challenges, such as insufficient weeding of the trees and low usage of the Esperanza stoves. To address these issues, the team organized an intervention meeting with six village heads and their communities from Chiposyo, Makunganya, Mikulumu 1, Mikulumu 2, Menyanga, and Duwa.

During the meeting, community members revealed that the primary challenge with tree care was the quality of soil on the communal land. Despite this, they assured that the land has historically supported trees and committed to a weeding exercise soon. They explained that the delay was due to other commitments, particularly harvesting, as it was the dry season. Community members expressed gratitude for the project's positive impact. Although the communal woodlot's progress is slow, individual home trees are thriving, and there is optimism about future benefits. Residents anticipate being able to collect small amounts of firewood from these trees in a few years.

Melia Stephano from Menyanga village referred to the Esperanza stove as a "minicooker" due to its cleanliness, speed, and suitability for her needs. She highlighted the difficulties in sourcing firewood in Malawi and the inefficiency of traditional three-stone fires. The new stoves have made a significant difference in her daily life.