A new study by the Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC) reveals that while climate awareness is growing in Malawian communities, women remain largely excluded from environmental decision-making. According to EnviroNews, findings from a recent validation workshop showed a persistent gap between women's presence in climate discussions and their actual influence on policies. CISONECC National Coordinator Julius Ng'oma called on the government to take an active role in protecting citizens' climate-related rights and ensuring equitable participation in environmental planning.
In Nkhata Bay, the District Council has set a target of planting 600,000 trees this season to restore habitats and protect infrastructure from extreme weather. According to Malawi-Moto, the council commended the Nyika Media Club for launching an initiative that planted 500 trees at Kalambwe Primary School. Headteacher Florida Kampira noted that severe deforestation had previously left the school vulnerable to strong winds that frequently damaged classroom roofs, expressing hope that the newly planted trees will eventually serve as protective windbreakers.
Public health officials and scientists are also monitoring environmental changes following recent severe weather. A warning from University of Pretoria scientists highlighted the ongoing health risks following floods across southern Africa. According to the publication Down To Earth, researchers noted that as floodwaters recede in Malawi and neighbouring nations, the resulting stagnant water increases mosquito breeding and heightens the risk of malaria transmission. Meanwhile, the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services forecasts continued isolated thunderstorms and locally heavy rains across the Lakeshore and Southern Highlands due to an unstable easterly airmass.